Vinyl records are a popular way to listen to music, but they can be easily damaged. One of the biggest concerns for vinyl enthusiasts is whether cheap turntables can damage their records.
The answer is yes, cheap turntables can damage vinyl. This is because cheap turntables often have a few key problems that can cause damage to records:
- Poorly aligned cartridges: The cartridge is the part of the turntable that reads the grooves in the record. If the cartridge is not aligned properly, it can cause the stylus to scratch the record.
- Weak motors: Cheap turntables often have weak motors that can’t provide enough torque to turn the record smoothly. This can cause the stylus to skip or wobble, which can also damage the record.
- Poorly constructed platters: The platter is the flat surface that the record sits on. If the platter is not made of a heavy material, it can vibrate, which can also damage the record.
In addition to these problems, cheap turntables often lack features that can help to protect records, such as anti-skate and tracking force adjustments. Anti-skate helps to keep the stylus from pulling towards the center of the record, and tracking force helps to keep the stylus from pressing too hard on the record. Both of these features can help to prevent damage to records.
If you are concerned about damaging your vinyl records, it is best to avoid cheap turntables. Instead, invest in a quality turntable that has been designed to play vinyl records without damaging them.
Here are some tips for choosing a turntable that won’t damage your vinyl records:
- Look for a turntable with a reputation for good sound quality.
- Make sure the turntable has a properly aligned cartridge.
- Choose a turntable with a strong motor that can turn the record smoothly.
- Look for a turntable with a heavy platter.
- Consider a turntable with anti-skate and tracking force adjustments.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you choose a turntable that will not damage your vinyl records.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Even a high-quality turntable can damage vinyl if it is not used properly. It is important to always use a clean, sharp stylus and to avoid playing the records too loudly.
- It is also important to store vinyl records properly. They should be stored in a cool, dry place and kept away from direct sunlight.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your vinyl records and enjoy them for many years to come.
