VPI Scoutmaster - Rubber Washer


Hi,
On the VPI website, there is an FAQ:

Q: "My VPI record clamp came with a rubber washer. What am I supposed to do with it?"

A: The rubber washer is meant to be permanently placed over the turntable's spindle below the record. This prevents "dishing" of the LP when it is clamped to the platter using the threaded VPI clamp.

My question is: Do you still use the washer if you also have the periphery ring clamp? "Dishing" wouldn't be a potential problem anymore.

In fact, it looks to me like the record "dishes" DOWNWARD with both the rubber washer and outer ring clamp in use. I think I should remove the washer. Anyone out there have any opinions, stories, ideas, etc.?

Thanks.

Tom
tfkaudio
Not sure if this makes any sense but I think it also helps suspend the record i.e. reduce vibrations coming up directly from the platter into the stylus. It can also provide better platter/record grip. I have not tried my Scoutmaster without the spindle except once by accident which totally skewed the my VTF calculations!
Tom, I asked the same question you are asking when I recently upgraded my Mk. 3.5 TNT to the Mk. 6 design. VPI indicated that the rubber washer was designed for use with their center clamps and advised that the washer should not be used with the HRX center and periphery ring weights. I believe this advice is also posted somewhere within the VPI web site.
Ditch the rubber washer if you are using the outside ring clamp. I have the SuperScout Master with both the outside and the center clamp with no rubber washer underneath the vinyl. These two heavy weight clamps are IMHO are the biggest upgrade from the Scout to the SuperScout Master. I have spun vinyl that I would not normally place on a regular table because of warping with great success.
If you are using the screw down clamp (as well as the periphery ring) then you still should use thye washer. The dishing is caused only at the center of the record being pushed downward. I hope this makes sense.