2. analog
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TT Noob questions

1) I have a VPI Scoutmaster. I bought the stainless steel center weight thinking it would not only be a sonic improvement but convenient (not have to screw). However, with the stainless steel weight, the LP is not stable at the edges (you can easily press it down and make contact) whereas the screw-in stock clamp seems to be more stable. Does this matter? I think it sounds better with the stock clamp. Does the stainless weight really need the VPI edge/ring device to be useful?

2) When I finish playing an LP and take it off, as soon as the record is a few inches away, I hear a big static pop. Each additional record produces more pops (2 pops for 2nd LP, 3 for 3rd etc) as if I'm building up more and more static. Anyone experience this - is it indicative of something I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance; you guys have been extremely helpful in making a return to vinyl a rewarding experience.

Ian
madfloyd

Showing 3 responses by madfloyd

madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Thanks, I do have the gun (just opened the box today as a matter of fact), but wasn't quite sure how to use it.

Joey: thanks for the tip about removing the rubber ring washer when using the heavy centerweight - I'll try that.
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Another question: my wife listened to my analog setup for the first time last night and surprised me by immediately hearing surface noise coming through during playback. Her high frequency hearing is better than mine and I'm currently auditioning speakers that are fairly bright (Rockport Mira). It wasn't as if I was playing a quiet piece either.

Afterwords put on an analog test LP that has a track of silence and I could hear it myself. Is this to be expected or is it possible to eliminate this?

Thanks.
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. I'm using a Shelter 501 MKII cartridge. TT was setup by dealer, but not using the mint protractor (gotta get me one of those and learn to do this myself). Cartridge has about 40 hours on it or so.

I did try the center weight without the rubber washer and it seemed to work well, but interesting comments about how the clamp might still be better.

Thanks.
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