First of all - there are no stupid questions, only stupid people. I can safely say you don't fall into the latter category by the simple fact that you've taken the plunge into vinyl!
That being said, if your turntable doesn't have a "sticky" mat made out of rubber, etc. it's perfectly fine - in my opinion - to change the record side without turning the table off. My table (a Rega P5) has the stock felt mat on it and I leave the motor running during an entire record playing session - it's easier on the motor and if you're records and mat are clean you should have no problems.
The other problem you're having I'm inclined to say is probably software issue, but I'll be curious to hear what others have to say about it. I've got a couple of discs that this happens on too with my Rega Exact cartridge and I'm fairly certain it's the pressings since it's not consistently a problem.
I was originally concerned that the Exact cartridge could have been overloading my phono-preamp and causing the distortion but have since learned that the phono-preamp has plenty of headroom to accomodate the cartridge. This might be something you want to check on though since the Goldring cartridges are very high output MM's as well.
The only other suggestion I would have would be to keep playing to a minimum if the records are dirty until you get your cleaning supplies.
Have Fun!
That being said, if your turntable doesn't have a "sticky" mat made out of rubber, etc. it's perfectly fine - in my opinion - to change the record side without turning the table off. My table (a Rega P5) has the stock felt mat on it and I leave the motor running during an entire record playing session - it's easier on the motor and if you're records and mat are clean you should have no problems.
The other problem you're having I'm inclined to say is probably software issue, but I'll be curious to hear what others have to say about it. I've got a couple of discs that this happens on too with my Rega Exact cartridge and I'm fairly certain it's the pressings since it's not consistently a problem.
I was originally concerned that the Exact cartridge could have been overloading my phono-preamp and causing the distortion but have since learned that the phono-preamp has plenty of headroom to accomodate the cartridge. This might be something you want to check on though since the Goldring cartridges are very high output MM's as well.
The only other suggestion I would have would be to keep playing to a minimum if the records are dirty until you get your cleaning supplies.
Have Fun!