Vinyl records are a popular way to listen to music, but they can be easily scratched. This can be a frustrating experience, as it can damage the record and make it unplayable. So, how do vinyl records scratch so easily? And what can you do to prevent it?
How Vinyl Records Scratch
Vinyl records are made of a thin plastic material that is easily damaged. The grooves that contain the music are very shallow, and even a small scratch can cause the needle to skip or jump. Scratches can be caused by a number of things, including:
- Dropping the record
- Placing the record on a dirty or dusty surface
- Using a dirty or damaged stylus
- Playing the record with a high tracking force
How to Prevent Vinyl Records from Scratching
There are a few things you can do to prevent your vinyl records from scratching:
- Handle your records with care. Avoid dropping them or placing them on dirty or dusty surfaces.
- Use a clean and well-maintained stylus. A dirty or damaged stylus can cause scratches.
- Set the tracking force on your record player to the recommended level. A high tracking force can put unnecessary stress on the record and cause scratches.
- Store your records in a protective sleeve. This will help to prevent them from getting scratched when they are not in use.
Conclusion
Vinyl records can scratch easily, but there are a few things you can do to prevent it. By handling your records with care, using a clean stylus, and storing them in a protective sleeve, you can help to keep your records in good condition for years to come.
Additional Tips
- If you do scratch your record, there are a few things you can do to try to repair it. You can try using a record cleaning brush or a record repair kit. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be successful in every case.
- If you are concerned about your records being scratched, you can purchase a record guard. A record guard is a piece of plastic that fits over the record and protects it from scratches.
- When you are not using your records, store them in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent them from warping or getting damaged.