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Dealing with Static on LP palyback

Anyone have any suggestions on how to deal with static build up on LPs as I play them?   Just playing one side is something enough to cause an arc when I pick up the album.  Most of the time I hear tiny, consistent crackles that sound just like static.

All the things I tried that claim to reduce static does not.  I must have four record mats and a camel hair tone arm brush, all of which claim to reduce static but have no effect that I can see.

spatialking
chayro
3,092 posts
 

Just don’t confuse Gruv Glide with Groove Lube, which is a very different product. 

oldaudiophile
384 posts
 

@spatialking I haven't read through this entire thread.  So, if this has been addressed by others, my apologies.

First things first.  Are all the electrical connections in good order (cart leads; TT wires; etc.)?

Secondly, Have you got your records stored in good quality anti-static sleeves (e.g.  MoFi inner & outer sleeves)?

Thirdly, what is your TT sitting on?

Fourthly, is your TT next to any piece of equipment that generates a high level of EMI (electromagnetic interference - e.g.  satellite TV receiver(s)?

Fifthly, I know there are those who think playing records with a dust cover in place is the spawn of Satan.  However, provided everything is set up properly and you have a good TT, properly fitting & substantial dust cover, etc., I haven't noticed any difference in sound quality with the dust cover closed.  As such, I would never play records without the dust cover down.  Dust is the enemy!

Lastly, do you have an use a record washing system?

lewm
14,681 posts
 

Dust, such as it is present in a typical listening room, is the enemy of what? Considering that the LP is exposed for about 20 minutes per side.

willy-t
207 posts
 

I have a 100% solution to your problem

Look up HEX MAT MADE IN BUDAPEST.

These mats are not cheap but since  I’ve been using one I’ve had 0 static

Before it, my heavy rubber platter mat would come off with the record there was so

much static

good luck Willy-T

mylogic
841 posts
 

@oldaudiophile 

From my own experiences, “old audiophiles” know best. I honestly believe most oldies are covers down opinionated. There’s just no substitute for experience.

@lewm 

20 minutes open to dust is 20 (or more) minutes too long for me. Dust is the “enemy” of vinyl (as oldaudiophile already stated)

@spatialking 

I am with you on cover down.

I personally would never want to put a record with 20 minutes of dust exposure back into a clean lined anti-static inner sleeve.

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