Phono cartridges are intricate and delicate devices that require a certain amount of break-in time before reaching their full potential. This break-in period can range from a few hours to a few hundred hours, depending on the cartridge and the system it’s being used in.
What is cartridge break-in?
Cartridge break-in is the process of allowing the cartridge to settle in and sound its best. This involves playing music through the cartridge for a period of time. During this time, the suspension system of the cartridge will loosen up, and the stylus will become more compliant. This will lead to better tracking and sound quality.
Why is cartridge break-in necessary?
There are a few reasons why cartridge break-in is necessary. First, the suspension system of a cartridge is typically very stiff when it’s new. This can cause the cartridge to track the grooves of the record less accurately, which can lead to distortion and other sound problems.
Second, the stylus of a cartridge is also typically very stiff when it’s new. This can cause the stylus to skip or mistrack, which can also lead to distortion and other sound problems.
Third, the moving parts of a cartridge, such as the cantilever and armature, may need time to settle in and work together smoothly.
How long does cartridge break-in take?
The amount of time it takes for a cartridge to break in varies depending on the cartridge and the system it’s being used in. In general, however, most cartridges will require at least 50 hours of break-in time. Some cartridges may require up to 100 hours of break-in time.
How to break in a cartridge
There are a few different ways to break in a cartridge. One way is to simply play music through the cartridge for a period of time. You can do this by playing your favorite records or by listening to a break-in record.
Another way to break in a cartridge is to use a cartridge break-in tool. These tools typically generate a low-frequency signal that can help to loosen up the suspension system of the cartridge.
Tips for cartridge break-in
Here are a few tips for cartridge break-in:
- Clean your records before playing them. Dust and dirt on your records can cause the stylus to wear out prematurely and can also affect the sound quality.
- Use a record weight or clamp. This will help to keep the record flat and stable, which can improve the tracking of the cartridge.
- Don’t play your records at high volume levels during break-in. This can put unnecessary stress on the cartridge and can lead to damage.
- Be patient. It takes time for a cartridge to break in. Don’t get discouraged if the cartridge doesn’t sound its best right away.
Some additional tips for cartridge break-in
- Break in the cartridge in your system. This is because the cartridge will interact with the other components in your system, such as the tonearm and turntable, in a unique way.
- Use a variety of music genres during break-in. This will help to ensure that the cartridge is broken in for all types of music.
- Take breaks during break-in. If you listen to music for hours on end during break-in, the cartridge may overheat and become damaged.
- Clean the cartridge regularly during break-in. This will help to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on the stylus or cantilever.
Cartridge break-in is an important part of owning a turntable. By following the tips above, you can help to ensure that your cartridge reaches its full potential and delivers the best possible sound quality.
It is also important to note that cartridge break-in is not a one-size-fits-all process. What works for one cartridge may not work for another. It is important to experiment and find what works best for your particular cartridge and system.
