The short answer is yes, cheap record players can damage records. This is because they often have poor quality components, such as a ceramic cartridge and a heavy tracking force. These components can cause the stylus to wear out the grooves in the record, which can lead to permanent damage.
Here are some of the ways that cheap record players can damage records:
- Ceramic cartridges: Ceramic cartridges are the cheapest type of cartridge available. They have a spherical stylus, which is not as sharp as a diamond stylus. This can cause the stylus to skip over the grooves in the record, which can lead to damage.
- Heavy tracking force: Tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. Cheap record players often have a high tracking force, which can cause the stylus to wear out the grooves in the record.
- Vibration: Cheap record players are often not very well-made, and they can vibrate easily. This vibration can cause the stylus to skip over the grooves in the record, which can lead to damage.
If you are concerned about damaging your records, it is best to avoid cheap record players. Instead, invest in a quality turntable with a diamond stylus and a low tracking force. This will help to ensure that your records last for many years to come.
Here are some tips for preventing your records from being damaged:
- Clean your records regularly. This will help to remove dirt and dust from the grooves, which can help to prevent the stylus from skipping.
- Use a quality turntable. A good turntable will have a diamond stylus and a low tracking force, which will help to prevent the stylus from damaging the grooves.
- Handle your records with care. Avoid dropping or scratching your records, as this can also damage the grooves.
- Store your records in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the records from warping or becoming brittle.
