if your turntable is only playing sound out of one speaker, specifically the right speaker, there are a few things you can check to try to fix the problem.
1. Check your speakers and connections
The first thing you should do is check to make sure that the problem is not with your speakers or connections. Try playing audio from another device, such as a smartphone or CD player, through the same speakers and connections that you are using for your turntable. If you hear sound coming from both speakers, then the problem is not with your speakers or connections.
2. Check your cartridge
The next thing to check is your cartridge. The cartridge is the part of the turntable that houses the stylus, which is the needle that makes contact with the record groove. If the cartridge is not properly installed or is damaged, it can cause the left channel to not work.
To check the cartridge, make sure that it is properly installed in the headshell. The cartridge should be flush against the headshell and the screws should be tightened securely. If the cartridge is not properly installed, it can cause the left channel to not work.
3. Clean your stylus
If the cartridge is properly installed, the next thing to check is the stylus. Over time, the stylus can become dirty or damaged, which can cause the left channel to not work.
To clean the stylus, use a stylus brush to gently remove any dust or dirt. You can also use a stylus cleaning fluid to clean the stylus. Be careful not to touch the stylus with your fingers, as this can damage it.
4. Check your tracking force and antiskate
The tracking force and antiskate are two settings on your turntable that can affect the sound quality. If the tracking force is too high or the antiskate is too low, it can cause the left channel to not work.
To check the tracking force, consult your turntable’s manual for the recommended tracking force for your cartridge. Once you know the recommended tracking force, use a tracking force gauge to set the tracking force on your turntable.
To check the antiskate, set the antiskate to the same setting as the tracking force.
5. Check your RCA cables
The RCA cables are the cables that connect your turntable to your amplifier or speakers. If the RCA cables are damaged or not properly connected, it can cause the left channel to not work.
To check the RCA cables, make sure that they are properly connected to both your turntable and your amplifier or speakers. If the RCA cables are damaged, replace them.
6. Check the headshell contacts
The headshell contacts are the electrical contacts that connect the cartridge to the turntable. If the headshell contacts are dirty or corroded, it can cause the left channel to not work.
To check the headshell contacts, clean them with a contact cleaner. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean the headshell contacts.
7. Check the tonearm balance
The tonearm balance is the setting on your turntable that ensures that the tonearm is properly balanced. If the tonearm is not properly balanced, it can cause the left channel to not work.
To check the tonearm balance, consult your turntable’s manual for instructions on how to balance the tonearm.
8. Rebalance the tonearm
Once you have checked the tonearm balance, try rebalancing the tonearm. This may help to fix the problem with the left channel.
9. Test the antiskate function
To test the antiskate function, play a record that is known to be in good condition. Place the tonearm on the record and set the antiskate to the same setting as the tracking force. The tonearm should not move to the side. If the tonearm does move to the side, adjust the antiskate until the tonearm no longer moves.
10. Check your cartridge alignment
If you have tried all of the above and the left channel is still not working, you may need to have your cartridge aligned by a professional. Cartridge alignment is a delicate process and it is important to have it done by someone who is experienced.
If you have tried all of the above and you are still having problems with the left channel, you may need to take your turntable to a professional for repair.
