Yes, you can touch the middle of a vinyl record. However, it is generally not recommended, as it can increase the risk of damaging the record.
The middle of a vinyl record is where the label is located. The label is a sticker that contains information about the record, such as the artist, album title, and track listing.
The label is also where the spindle hole is located. The spindle hole is the hole in the center of the record that allows it to be placed on a turntable.
Touching the middle of a vinyl record can increase the risk of damaging the record in a few ways:
- Fingerprints: The oils and dirt on your fingers can transfer to the record surface, attracting dust and debris. Over time, this can cause the record to become dirty and scratched.
- Scratches: If you touch the record surface with your fingernails, you can scratch the record. Scratches can damage the record grooves and lead to pops, clicks, and other surface noise.
- Warps: If you hold the record by the center label and put too much pressure on it, you can warp the record. Warps can cause the record to wobble on the turntable and lead to poor sound quality and skipping.
If you need to touch the middle of a vinyl record, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of damage:
- Wash your hands first. This will help to remove any oils or dirt from your hands.
- Be careful not to touch the playing surface of the record. If you do accidentally touch the record, clean it immediately with a record brush or record cleaning solution.
- Hold the record by the center label and the outer edge. This will help to prevent you from putting too much pressure on the record.
When is it okay to touch the middle of a vinyl?
There are a few times when it is okay to touch the middle of a vinyl record:
- When placing the record on the turntable. You will need to touch the center label to place the record on the spindle.
- When removing the record from the turntable. You will need to touch the center label to remove the record from the spindle.
- When cleaning the record. If you are cleaning the record with a record brush or record cleaning solution, you will need to touch the center label to hold the record in place.
Other than these times, it is generally best to avoid touching the middle of a vinyl record.
How to keep your vinyl records in good condition
The best way to keep your vinyl records in good condition is to handle them properly. This means avoiding touching the playing surface of the record, and storing the records in a clean, dry place.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your vinyl records in good condition:
- Clean your records regularly. Use a record brush or record cleaning solution to clean your records before and after playing them.
- Store your records in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your records in direct sunlight or in humid environments.
- Use a record sleeve. A record sleeve will help to protect the record from dust and debris.
- Use an outer sleeve. An outer sleeve will help to protect the record sleeve from wear and tear.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition for many years to come.
