There are a few reasons why your record player might be changing pitch:
- Incorrect tracking force: The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. If the tracking force is too high or too low, it can cause the stylus to skip or distort the sound, resulting in a change in pitch.
- Misaligned cartridge: The cartridge is the part of the record player that holds the stylus. If the cartridge is not aligned correctly, it can cause the stylus to track the record groove incorrectly, resulting in a change in pitch.
- Worn or damaged stylus: The stylus is the part of the record player that makes contact with the record. If the stylus is worn or damaged, it can cause the record to sound distorted or have a change in pitch.
- Worn or damaged belt: The belt is the part of the record player that connects the motor to the platter. If the belt is worn or damaged, it can cause the platter to spin too slowly or too quickly, resulting in a change in pitch.
- Problems with the motor: The motor is the part of the record player that spins the platter. If the motor is not working properly, it can cause the platter to spin too slowly or too quickly, resulting in a change in pitch.
If you are not sure why your record player is changing pitch, it is a good idea to start by checking the tracking force and cartridge alignment. You can also try cleaning the stylus and belt. If you have checked all of these things and your record player is still changing pitch, it is possible that there is a problem with the motor. In this case, it is a good idea to have the record player looked at by a qualified technician.
Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting a record player that is changing pitch:
- Make sure that the record player is on a level surface.
- Try playing a different record. If the record player changes pitch with all records, then the problem is with the record player, not the records.
- Inspect the record player for any obvious damage. If you see any damage, it is a good idea to have the record player looked at by a qualified technician.
If you have tried all of these things and your record player is still changing pitch, it is time to take it to a qualified technician.
