How do you know that a record is really worn?


Hello All,

As the title says, how do you know when a particular disc is worn? Does the fidelity fall off and the sound becomes muddy? Does surface noise increase to the point where it becomes louder than the content?

I have acquired a quantity of vinyl that even after substantial cleaning just doesn't have the presence that I think it should. There are no visable scuffs and the grooves after cleaning look fine.

Thanks for your input.

Regards,

Jan
jsmoller

Showing 1 response by ihcho

OK, then lets assume you bought a new LP and its sound quality is absolutely good with no play noise/pops or whatever. And your turntable is set up perfectly and you take care of the vinyl.

When do you normally start hearing those play noise and pops? (Maybe after 50 play?) When do you start hearing the sound gets muddy? (Maybe after 200 play?)
After how many times of play?

I have many LPs that look very clean with no scratches but have lots of play noise and pops. Also, I have many LPs with lots of visible scratches but sound very good with marginal play noise and pops. So, visual inspection alone would not be enough to tell one LP's condition. Also, some of the new LPs I bought have annoying play noise and pops right at the first play.