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Surface Noise - another question

On a scale of 1 to 10, my surface noise is about a '1' (1 is low, 10 is high). I have a TNT Jr. w/super platter and upgraded flywheel motor (VPI belts), JMW 10.0 arm, a Benz Glider (High output-not the new 'S' - about 8 years old but probably only 200 hrs on it), Cardas Phono cables, and an innersound phono stage (not set to high gain, 47k ohms, 100 micro farad capacatance setting). I use the Living Voice Carbon record mat and BDR record clamp. I am referring to basically new records, cleaned w/VPI 16.5 with Walker Audio 3 step (or Needle Dr fluid), and Milty Zero Stat. Stylus is always cleaned with either magic eraser or Needle Dr. or the Zero Dust and cartridge is recently degaussed. Rig is as perfectly leveled as possible, on a Billy Bags Pro Stand. VTF set to high side of mfg recommendation - 2.2 grams; speed dead on (VPI SDS, KAB Strobe), VTA is dialed in as all is in focus and azimuth must be pretty close to dead on as my soundstage is spot on. Here is my question - how can I get the surface noise down? (I have heard rigs with NO surface noise). Assuming records are in as perfect condition as you can get, do you think it is the cartridge that is giving me the little surface noise; phono stage? Other? (New TT?)

Appeciate the input of the vinyl gurus - I'm sure you have the answer.
128x128cerrot
bill_k
882 posts
 
If the noise is from the phono stage then it would be audible with the volume up even when the stylus is not on an LP, so that should be easy to determine. If it's actually coming from the stylus/LP interface, then I've found that the use of Stylast before playing an LP can significantly reduce surface noise. It's a lubricant that also claims to increase stylus life (but I'd rather not get into a debate about that!) I also agree that a certain amount of noise is inherent to the process of LP playback, but stylus profile, alignment accuracy, and obviously the condition of the vinyl will all affect the level of noise experienced.
tubeo
72 posts
 
It may be the Benz Cartridge . Even though it has low hours of use , the Suspension could be dried out . This could [ would ] cause the Surface Noise to be more pronounced .

The cartridge seems to be the WEAK LINK in your system anyway . An up-grade is in order , possibly to a Low Out-Put Moving Coil .
cerrot's avatar
cerrot OP
1,700 posts
 
Thanks, guys. I did suspect the cartridge. An upgrade we shall do.
lwerner
58 posts
 
Your problem is strange. I say so because I have virtualy the same set up you do. TNT 3.0 modified, superplatter, outer ring, SDS, Graham B-44, Clearaudio Stradivari, KAB etc. and on and on.
My Lp`s are DEAD QUIET, I have NO surface noise at all, they are as dead quiet as CD`s. People are amazed that they can`t hear anything when when I drop the stylus.
I suspect the cartridge/arm, that area, your "surface noise" may not be that, What you are calling surface noise may be static that is generated by the cartridge as it tracks, perhaps poor grounding, can you try another cartridge?, if the noise lessens even a bit it will point in the direction of the problem.
Do not listen to people that tell you to go to CD`s, their hearing is destroyed and they are doomed to wonder the Earth looking for garage sale Cd`s.
cerrot's avatar
cerrot OP
1,700 posts
 
Won't leave vinyl anytime. I do listen to digital but vinyl is better. I just did some tweaking and looks like my vtf was a little light. Listening now. I think better.

Surface noise is just that. It isn't static or the phono stage. I think my problem is licked with the vtf adjustment. I dialed in vta and forgot to go back and check vtf. Thanks, everyone.
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