A turntable is a delicate piece of equipment that requires careful setup and maintenance in order to produce the best possible sound quality. One of the most important aspects of setting up a turntable is leveling it. A level turntable will ensure that the stylus tracks the grooves of the record evenly and accurately, resulting in better sound quality.
There are a few reasons why leveling a turntable is so important. First, a level turntable will help to reduce distortion. When a turntable is not level, the stylus will not be able to track the grooves of the record evenly, resulting in distortion. Second, a level turntable will help to improve stereo separation. Stereo separation is the perceived distance between the left and right channels of a stereo recording. A level turntable will help to improve stereo separation by ensuring that the stylus tracks the grooves of the record evenly.
There are a few different ways to level a turntable. The most common way is to use a spirit level. A spirit level is a small device that contains a bubble that settles in the center when the device is level. To level a turntable using a spirit level, place the spirit level on the platter of the turntable and adjust the feet of the turntable until the bubble is centered.
Another way to level a turntable is to use a digital level. A digital level is a more sophisticated device than a spirit level, and it provides more accurate readings. To level a turntable using a digital level, place the digital level on the platter of the turntable and follow the instructions on the device to level the turntable.
Once you have leveled your turntable, it is important to check the level regularly. Turntables can go out of level over time due to vibration or other factors. If you notice that your turntable is no longer level, simply adjust the feet of the turntable until it is level again.
Here are some additional tips for leveling your turntable:
- Place the turntable on a level surface. If the surface that you are placing the turntable on is not level, you can use a shim to level it.
- Avoid placing the turntable on a soft surface, such as a carpet. A soft surface can absorb vibration, which can cause the turntable to go out of level.
- If your turntable has adjustable feet, use them to level the turntable. If your turntable does not have adjustable feet, you can use a shim to level it.
- Once you have leveled the turntable, check the level regularly. Turntables can go out of level over time due to vibration or other factors.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your turntable is level and that you are getting the best possible sound quality from your records.
