The tonearm weight is a critical setting on a turntable, as it determines how much force the stylus applies to the record groove. If the tonearm weight is too light, the stylus will not track the groove properly and may skip. If the tonearm weight is too heavy, the stylus can damage the record groove.
How to Adjust Tonearm Weight
To adjust the tonearm weight, you will need a tracking force gauge. A tracking force gauge is a small device that measures the amount of force that the stylus is applying to the record groove.
- Identify the tonearm weight adjustment screw. The tonearm weight adjustment screw is usually located on the back of the tonearm.
- Place the tracking force gauge on the record. The tracking force gauge should be placed on the record so that the stylus is in the center of the gauge.
- Turn the tonearm weight adjustment screw. Turn the screw clockwise to increase the tonearm weight and counterclockwise to decrease the tonearm weight.
- Read the tracking force gauge. The tracking force gauge will display the amount of force that the stylus is applying to the record groove.
- Adjust the tonearm weight until it is within the manufacturer’s specifications. The manufacturer’s specifications for the tonearm weight will be listed in the turntable’s owner’s manual.
Conclusion
Adjusting the tonearm weight is a simple process that can be done with a tracking force gauge. By following the steps in this article, you can ensure that your turntable is tracking the record groove properly and that your records are not being damaged.
Here are some additional tips for adjusting the tonearm weight:
- Be patient and take your time. It may take a few tries to get the tonearm weight correct.
- If you are not sure what the manufacturer’s specifications are, you can contact the turntable manufacturer.
- If you are still having trouble adjusting the tonearm weight, you can take your turntable to a qualified technician.
With a little care and attention, you can get the best possible sound quality from your turntable.
Here are some additional considerations:
- Cartridge type: The type of cartridge you have will affect the recommended tracking force. Moving magnet cartridges typically require a lower tracking force than moving coil cartridges.
- Record condition: The condition of your records can also affect the recommended tracking force. Worn records may require a lower tracking force to prevent skipping.
- Environment: The environment in which you are listening to your turntable can also affect the recommended tracking force. If you are listening in a noisy environment, you may need to increase the tracking force to prevent the stylus from skipping.
Ultimately, the decision of what tracking force to use is a personal one. Experiment with different settings to find what sounds best to you.
