Noob problems guys


Ok so im using my stepdads technics sl 1300 table, had the local hifi guy whip it in to shape,i got a record cleaning kit by rca from local vinyl shop. Even after i clean em up i still get a lot of pops and crackles.Im guessing its dirt...but... before i leave the vinyl shop they let me clean them on a nitty gritty, and I bought new sleeves to put them in, also I only buy stuff that looks like its NEVER been played( found the 2 lp amadeus soundtrack MINT!)
. And heres the kicker, during loud passeges it seems to break up and crackle more then quiet parts. Look I know Im using cheap gear, and not expecting cd quality-i truly just enjoy the process and listening to records--for me its new! So whats up, a 1000 things!?
glowplug

Showing 1 response by dougdeacon

Crackling sounds synched with loud/dynamic passages is *very* likely caused by the stylus momentarily losing contact with the groovewalls. This is called "mistracking".

1) An uncontrolled diamond chisel bouncing around inside a plastic groove will do permanent damage. It won't be the stylus that's damaged of course, it'll be the vinyl. Stop playing valuable records until you eliminate the problem.

2) Increasing Vertical Tracking Force (VTF) should reduce or eliminate this. It is a serious error (made by many newbies and more than a few shop techs who should know better) to play a cartridge with VTF set too light. 1,000 records are damaged that way for every 1 that's damaged by VTF being too heavy.

Mistracking is more likely with a new cartridge (whose suspension hasn't loosened up yet) or a very old one (whose suspension has lost flexibility).

Set VTF at the maximum recommended for the cartridge for at least the first 200 hours. That will speed break-in and reduce the chance of mistracking.

Alignment, unless grossly off, is unlikely to be involved.

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Woofer pumping is a common problem and several factors contribute. After isolating the TT as much as feasible from outside vibrations, as Danmyers suggested, try playing the flattest, least warped LP you have and then play a badly warped one. If the woofers pump only on the warped LP then you've found the reason. (Finding the solution is a much longer topic.)