Pitch problem. Help


Hi folks,

I've had my Goldring GR1.2 for a few months now. Wonderful entry level table. Sometimes it sounds so good it's downright spooky. Quiet, accurate, and lush.

Other times, I can hear fairly serious pitch inaccuracies - especially on guitar or piano, I can literally here the pitch wobbling up and down.

This seems to change day-to-day. Last night, I listened to my new Johnny Cash album and was stunned. This afternoon, the pitch wobble has reared its ugly head, and the magic is gone.

What's happening here? Why would this happen some times and not others, on the same record? And what can I do?

Many thanks for your help.
lousyreeds1

Showing 1 response by seandtaylor99

As a Rega P3 owner I found the following causes most of the speed instability:

1) Off-center pressings (or oversized spindle hole in the LP). A little tapping on the periphery of the record (NOT WITH THE ARM LOWERED !!!!) will often center the record.

2) Belt slipping. Wash the belt in hot soapy water, and clean the pulley and subplatter with isopropyl alcohol to prevent any slip.

3) Level the table. Using a carpenters' level make sure the platter is ABSOLUTELY level. The regas are very sensitive to this.

4) Bearing oil. Gently lift the subplatter 1/2 inch (do not remove): the oil of the bearing should be clearly visible at the top of the shaft. If not you may need to add a drop or two of oil. Use 80w manual transmission oil (the smelly stuff with sulfur added) or oil from a Rega dealer.

Do all of the above before buying a speed box, because I strongly suspect that you don't need a speed box (and the above is way cheaper).

If you decide you need a speed box look into a Heed orbit. I think Music Direct may sell them. To be honest, though I think if you want to take it that far you're probably better off buying a better deck (like a nottingham).