A turntable felt mat is a thin, felt pad that is placed on the turntable platter. It serves a few purposes, including:
- Protecting the record. The felt mat helps to protect the record from scratches and damage. This is because the felt is soft and will not damage the record grooves.
- Absorbing vibrations. The felt mat helps to absorb vibrations from the turntable motor. This can help to improve the sound quality of the record by reducing unwanted noise.
- Creating a level surface. The felt mat helps to create a level surface for the record. This is important for ensuring that the needle tracks correctly and does not skip.
- Improving sound quality. Some people believe that the felt mat can improve the sound quality of the record by providing a more accurate soundstage. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Types of Turntable Felt Mats
There are a few different types of turntable felt mats available. The most common type is made of pure felt. This type of mat is the most effective at protecting the record and absorbing vibrations. However, it can also be the most expensive.
Another type of turntable felt mat is made of synthetic materials. These mats are less expensive than pure felt mats, but they may not be as effective at protecting the record and absorbing vibrations.
There are also a few specialty turntable felt mats available. These mats are designed for specific purposes, such as reducing static electricity or improving sound quality.
How to Choose a Turntable Felt Mat
The best way to choose a turntable felt mat is to consider your needs and budget. If you are looking for the best protection for your records, then a pure felt mat is the best option. If you are on a budget, then a synthetic felt mat may be a good choice. If you are looking for a mat that will improve the sound quality of your records, then you may want to consider a specialty mat.
How to Care for a Turntable Felt Mat
Felt mats are relatively easy to care for. You can simply vacuum them or wipe them down with a damp cloth. If the mat becomes dirty or stained, you can spot clean it with a mild detergent.
Conclusion
A turntable felt mat is a useful accessory that can help to protect your records, improve the sound quality of your records, and create a level surface for your record. If you are looking for a way to improve the lifespan and sound quality of your vinyl records, then a turntable felt mat is a good investment.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when choosing and using a turntable felt mat:
- The thickness of the mat. A thicker mat will provide more protection for the record, but it may also reduce the sound quality.
- The size of the mat. The mat should be the same size as the turntable platter.
- The color of the mat. The color of the mat is a matter of personal preference.
- The price of the mat. Felt mats can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
