There are many reasons why modern vinyls can skip. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Dirt and dust: Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of the record, causing the stylus to skip out of the groove. It is important to clean your records regularly using a soft brush or record cleaning kit.
- Scratches: Scratches on the record can also cause the stylus to skip. If your record has a deep scratch, you may be able to buff it out using a record scratch remover. However, if the scratch is too deep, the record may need to be replaced.
- Warped records: If a record is warped, the stylus will not be able to track the grooves properly, which can lead to skipping. Warped records can be caused by heat, humidity, or improper storage. To prevent warping, it is important to store your records in a cool, dry place.
- Turntable setup: If your turntable is not set up properly, it can also cause records to skip. Make sure that the turntable is level and that the tracking force is set correctly. You may also need to adjust the anti-skate setting.
- Cartridge and stylus: If your cartridge or stylus is worn out, it can also cause records to skip. It is important to replace your cartridge and stylus regularly, especially if you listen to your records frequently.
In addition to the above causes, there are a few other things that can cause modern vinyls to skip:
- New records: New records can sometimes have a coating of dust or debris on them from the pressing process. This can cause the stylus to skip until the record has been played a few times.
- Static electricity: Static electricity can also cause records to skip. To prevent static electricity, you can use an anti-static brush on your records before playing them.
- Resonance: Resonance can also cause records to skip. Resonance is a vibration that can be caused by the turntable, the speakers, or the environment. To reduce resonance, you can try placing the turntable on a soft pad or using vibration-dampening feet.
If you are having trouble with your records skipping, try the following tips:
- Clean your records regularly.
- Inspect your records for scratches and warping.
- Make sure that your turntable is set up properly.
- Replace your cartridge and stylus regularly.
- Use an anti-static brush on your records before playing them.
- Try to reduce resonance.
If you have tried all of these tips and your records are still skipping, you may need to take them to a professional to be cleaned or repaired.
