Monday, May 1, 2017

Best Way To Take Advantage Of Record Player Needles

By Deborah Hill


Record players are apparatuses used in reproducing sounds coming from a phonograph vinyl which is being spun through the turntable within a constant speed. A needle or stylus runs along the vinyl grooves and picks up the vibrations in reproducing sounds. The vibrations are then converted to electric currents and then amplified then the loudspeakers will output the sound reproduced.

Their parts are needed to be changed regularly because they will wear out by constantly using them. This is true specially for record player needles due to the friction made when it runs along the grooves. The following are some of the best ways in taking advantage of your phonograph and having it produces quality sound.

Setting the player up requires you to have an amplifier and a speaker but there are speakers now that has an amplifier built inside them already so you can just use them instead. Position the speakers on the correct side indicated with enough space between them and the wall. If you placed them on a hard surface, sit them on a piece of foam so that the vibrations can be absorbed.

Buying second hand vinyls is better because they are cheaper than brand new ones particularly those found in charity shops, vintage markets and garage sales. Clean your records thoroughly and have the best possible sounding music when playing them. Machines are available who can clean them but they are alternatives that are cheaper.

When the player is not being used, the dust cover should be down to keep it clean. Though when using it, you can either have it down or off depending on your preference. Having it down may make the sound resonate with the cover so the sound quality will be different when it is taken off so try which one you like best.

Platter mats are materials that looks like a sitting between player and vinyl that made usually from felt. It is used to absorb vibrations and to steadily hold the record for improving sound quality. Felt may be the most common because it is included in the player although cork and rubber are better in reducing static and vibrations.

Cartridge houses the stylus and is replaceable due to the dust and debris wearing the needle down. If regularly playing records, changing the cartridge annually is advisable in keeping its excellent condition. You might also consider upgrading to have further improvements instead of just replacing it regularly.

Tracking force is what the cartridge weight is called that is set on the vinyl that can be adjusted using the counterweight located at the end of the tonearm. Online guidelines are available or those with the product manual for tracking force suggestions. Too much weight will make dull sounds while thin sounds if too light.

Make sure you have enough space where you can put your player as they tend to be bulky. It is also important to place them where there are lesser vibrations produced. These can cause the needle to jump and skip when playing.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment