Worried about Denon 103R high tracking force on LP


The Denon 103R is a low compliance cartridge and, hence, it has a relatively high VTF of 2.2 to 2.8 grams. Will this prematurely wear out my vinyl?

Note: I have a VPI TNT JR & VPI 12.5 JMW tonearm.

I am a novice on this stuff and need some help.

Merel
redglobe

Showing 1 response by stanwal

No, years ago Decca did an experiment where they played a record several hundred times and then examined it for wear with a microscope. They were using 3.5 grams and found none. The cartridge they were using had a very good stylus, the polish on the diamond , along with proper stylus shape and alignment are the determining factors rather than tracking force per se. Also a little heavy does far less damage then a little too light, in the latter case the stylus can bounce up and down in the groves.