The Audio Technica LP60 turntable has gained popularity among vinyl enthusiasts for its affordability and user-friendly features. One of its essential components is the anti-skate feature, designed to minimize the tracking force exerted on the stylus and prevent skating, a phenomenon where the tonearm pulls towards the center of the record. In this article, we will delve into the concept of anti-skate, explain its importance, and guide you through the process of adjusting the anti-skate feature on your Audio Technica LP60 turntable.
Understanding Anti-Skate: The anti-skate mechanism counteracts the inward force generated by the groove walls as the stylus tracks across the record. It helps maintain the proper balance and alignment of the tonearm, allowing for accurate tracking and reducing the potential for inner groove distortion and excessive wear on the stylus and records.
Adjusting the Anti-Skate on the LP60: The Audio Technica LP60 features a preset anti-skate adjustment. Here’s how you can adjust it:
- Locate the Anti-Skate Control: On the LP60, the anti-skate control is a small dial located near the tonearm base. It is usually marked with numbers or a scale.
- Preset Anti-Skate Value: The LP60 has a preset anti-skate value determined during manufacturing to provide a balanced tracking force for most records. While it is not user-adjustable, the preset anti-skate is designed to minimize the potential for inner groove distortion and excessive stylus wear. Audio Technica has carefully calibrated this value to optimize performance.
- Avoid Manual Adjustment: It is important to note that the LP60 does not have a manual anti-skate adjustment option. The preset value is intended to work effectively across a range of records. Attempting to manually adjust the anti-skate on the LP60 may lead to unintended consequences or compromise the turntable’s performance.
- Use High-Quality, Well-Maintained Records: To achieve the best performance from the LP60’s anti-skate feature, use high-quality, well-maintained records. Worn-out or damaged records may still experience some tracking issues, despite the anti-skate mechanism. Additionally, ensure the turntable and stylus are clean and free from debris to optimize tracking.
- Seeking Further Assistance: If you experience significant tracking issues or believe the anti-skate feature is not functioning correctly on your LP60 turntable, it is advisable to contact Audio Technica’s customer support for guidance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps or determine if any adjustments or repairs are necessary.
Conclusion: The anti-skate feature on the Audio Technica LP60 turntable plays a crucial role in maintaining accurate tracking, minimizing distortion, and preserving the lifespan of both the stylus and records. While the LP60’s anti-skate is preset and not manually adjustable, Audio Technica has engineered it to deliver optimal performance across a range of records. By using high-quality, well-maintained records and keeping the turntable and stylus clean, you can maximize the effectiveness of the anti-skate feature.
Remember, if you encounter significant tracking issues or suspect a problem with the anti-skate mechanism, it is recommended to seek assistance from Audio Technica’s customer support. They can provide expert guidance and help ensure your LP60 turntable operates at its best. Enjoy the exceptional sound quality and smooth tracking experience that the Audio Technica LP60 and its anti-skate feature offer, and immerse yourself in the joy of vinyl playback.