Playing records slowly does not inherently damage them. However, playing records at the wrong speed can cause distortion and other playback problems. The speed at which a record is played is determined by the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the turntable. For example, a 33 1/3 RPM record should be played at 33 1/3 RPM.
If a record is played at a slower speed, it can cause the sound to be distorted. This is because the stylus will not be able to track the grooves properly. The stylus is the part of the record player that actually touches the record and converts the vibrations into sound. If the stylus is not tracking the grooves properly, it can cause the sound to be distorted or the record to skip.
If a record is played at a faster speed, it can also cause distortion. This is because the stylus will be moving too quickly and will not be able to accurately track the grooves.
The best way to prevent damage to your records is to play them at the correct speed. You can find the correct speed for your records on the label. If you are not sure what the correct speed is, you can consult the owner’s manual for your turntable.
Here are some other tips for preventing damage to your records:
- Clean your records regularly: This will help to remove dirt and dust, which can damage the grooves.
- Avoid playing scratched records: Scratches can damage the grooves and cause playback problems.
- Set the tracking force correctly: The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. If the tracking force is too high, it can damage the grooves.
- Be careful not to drop or bump your records: Dropping or bumping records can damage the grooves.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your records in good condition and prevent them from being damaged.
