It’s an exciting moment to open a brand new vinyl record and immerse yourself in the warm and rich sound of analog music. However, sometimes, you may encounter an issue where a brand new vinyl record plays at a slower speed than expected. This can be disappointing, especially when you’ve been looking forward to experiencing your new purchase. Several factors can contribute to this problem, but understanding the common causes and potential solutions will help you resolve the speed issue and fully enjoy your new vinyl records. In this article, we will explore some of the common causes of brand new vinyl playing slow and provide possible solutions to troubleshoot this problem.
- Incorrect Speed Setting:
One of the most common reasons for a brand new vinyl playing slow is an incorrect speed setting on the turntable. Double-check that your turntable is set to the correct speed for the record you are playing. Most records are designed to be played at either 33 1/3 RPM or 45 RPM. Ensure that your turntable is set to the appropriate speed based on the record’s label information.
- Belt Drive Turntable:
If your turntable is a belt drive model, the belt may need some time to settle and adjust after being stationary for an extended period during shipping and storage. New belts can sometimes stretch or loosen during initial use. In such cases, playing a few records can help the belt adjust to the correct tension, and the speed issue may resolve on its own.
- Stylus Pressure and Calibration:
Ensure that your turntable’s stylus pressure is correctly set according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. An incorrect stylus pressure can affect the playback speed. Additionally, check if your turntable’s pitch control or speed adjustment is set to a neutral position (no adjustments made) and not inadvertently causing the slowdown.
- Turntable Isolation:
An unstable or uneven surface can lead to speed fluctuations in turntables. Make sure your turntable is placed on a stable and level surface, away from any potential sources of vibration or resonance.
- Turntable Motor Issues:
In rare cases, a brand new turntable may have motor-related issues that affect the speed. If you’ve ruled out other causes, such as incorrect speed setting or stylus pressure, and the problem persists, contact the manufacturer’s customer support for guidance or potential warranty service.
- Factory Defect:
While uncommon, a brand new vinyl record may have manufacturing defects that cause playback issues. These defects can include uneven grooves or pressing errors. If you suspect a factory defect, consider contacting the record label or store for a replacement.
Encountering a brand new vinyl that plays slow can be disappointing, but don’t let it dampen your excitement for analog music. Start by verifying that your turntable is set to the correct speed and the stylus pressure is appropriately adjusted. If your turntable is a belt drive model, allow the belt some time to settle. Ensure your turntable is placed on a stable surface, away from sources of vibration. If the issue persists and you’ve ruled out other potential causes, it may be worth contacting the turntable manufacturer for assistance or considering professional calibration. With proper troubleshooting and care, you can resolve the speed issue and fully immerse yourself in the delightful sound of your brand new vinyl records. Happy listening!
