5 most common mistakes when using a turntable
Vinyl is experiencing a resurgence, and with it comes a way of listening to music that goes far beyond simply pressing play. For many analog music enthusiasts, listening becomes a true ritual : taking the record out of its sleeve, carefully placing it on the turntable, and letting the needle do its work.
The handcrafted nature of the record player, combined with good speakers, is the foundation of this experience. However, for it to be truly satisfying, it's best to avoid certain common practices that can muddy the sound, damage the records, or diminish the magic of the moment.
In this post, we'll review the 5 most common mistakes when using a turntable , plus a final bonus track , so you can get the most out of analog music. Take note!
Turntables and speakers, the foundation of everything
Before we delve into the most common mistakes when using a turntable, it's important to clarify one thing: the quality of the experience begins with the equipment . A good combination of turntable and speakers is essential for truly optimal listening and faithful reproduction of the original vinyl sound.
In this respect, our VULKKANO TD10 , together with the active speakers from the ARC range , form an ideal pair. Its broad compatibility and ease of connection allow you to enjoy vinyl without complications, getting the most out of your record collection.
5 mistakes you should avoid when using your record player
Now, let's get down to business. Below, we'll review the five most common mistakes you should avoid when using your turntable to keep your records in good condition and enjoy a quality listening experience.
1. Incorrectly adjusting the arm weight ( tracking force )
Adjusting the tonearm is essential for the turntable to function correctly.
Using too much weight can damage the vinyl grooves, while using too little causes skips and uneven needle wear.
Therefore, it is always advisable to follow the specifications of the cartridge manufacturer , which indicate the appropriate weight range to adjust it correctly and ensure optimal playback.
2. Playing dirty discs
Dust and dirt not only worsen sound quality, but can also damage the stylus and accelerate vinyl wear . Particles accumulated in the groove act as an abrasive during playback.
Therefore, cleaning records before playing them should be a basic routine for any vinyl enthusiast, even when the record appears to be clean.
3. Not changing the needle on time
A worn-out needle not only loses definition and sound quality, but it can seriously damage a vinyl record in just a few plays . As it wears down, it stops following the groove correctly, causing irreversible damage.
Many people wait until the stylus "sounds bad" before replacing it, but by then, the damage to the records is usually already done. Checking and replacing the stylus in time is key to protecting your collection.
4. Place the record player near vibrations
Powerful speakers, subwoofers, or unstable furniture can generate vibrations that interfere with the reading of the record, causing distortion, skipping, or even damage to the needle and vinyl.
To ensure clean playback, it is ideal to place the record player on a stable surface isolated from vibrations , avoiding placing it too close to loud sound sources or furniture that may move.
5. Not storing vinyl records properly
Storing records improperly can warp or damage them over time. Stacking them horizontally, exposing them to heat or direct light are common mistakes that affect both their shape and sound quality.
The correct way to store them is always in an upright position , inside suitable inner and outer covers, and away from sources of heat or humidity.
Bonus Track : Thinking that “any record player sounds the same”
Not all turntables offer the same listening quality. Briefcase models with built-in speakers , for example, may be attractive for their design and portability, but in terms of sound they often fall short : flat bass, harsh treble, and poor fidelity .
Believing that “any turntable will do” can ruin the analog experience and, even worse, damage your vinyl records if the equipment doesn't allow for proper adjustments . Investing in a quality turntable and good speakers makes all the difference between listening to music… and just hearing noise.
Conclusion
Enjoying vinyl records isn't just about pressing play: it requires care and attention to detail . Avoiding mistakes like incorrectly adjusting the tonearm, playing dirty records, not changing the stylus on time, placing the turntable near vibrations, or storing records improperly makes all the difference between an enjoyable listening experience and the risk of damaging your collection.
Furthermore, remembering that not all turntables are created equal will help you choose the right equipment to get the most out of every record. With a good turntable, quality speakers, and proper care, every playback becomes a true musical ritual.
And remember: at VULKKANO we help you choose the equipment that best suits your needs. Explore our complete catalog and start enjoying the best audio quality.