As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Digital formats have reigned everything in the world, including the music, obviously. But if you’re one of those few who haven’t forgotten the good old vinyl records, you might’ve got a turntable in the collection.
As they are and will be one of your golden collection, you would definitely love to gift your turntable a longer life. If you agree with me at that point, then the next ‘Must-to-know’ for you is, how to do proper maintenance of it. And you’re fortunate because this article is all about that.
Below, find some exclusive maintenance tips for your turntable that actually works-
The Safest Ways to Clean the Stylus and Cartridge
First thing first, what are Stylus and Cartridge?
Well, the electromagnetic transducer in the turntable is the cartridge. And in the down cartridge hold the stylus. It transmits the actual sound that we hear through the amplifier. On the stylus, there is diamond wear on the tip.
The stylus has also another name- The Needle. A long-lasting lifespan of a cartridge depends on how you take care of the stylus. Because these things are too small to see with the naked eye, you should use a magnifying glass at first to inspect the stylus.
Remember–
If the tip is convex, then you can take the condition as perfect. But for the concave, you have to change the tip without putting in any effort.
Now, see for the cleaning process. There are several ways and it’s important that what and how you should follow. Let’s break them into bite-size chunks for you-
Cleaner fluid | Green staff paper | Degreaser |
Just spray on the stylus and move the brush following the direction that record does. | A gentle paper of aluminum. Use this with minimum pressure to remove deep dust. | To remove stubborn dust, you can close down the tip into a degreaser. Then remove that with the cotton bud. |
Apart from this trio, there is an interesting mixing process without liquid-
At first use an air cane. Let the compressed air blown away the slack dust. Then use a long hair brush to remove the embedded dust. Lastly, use green paper to clean the leftovers.
The Worst Indication of Damage: Stay Away from These
There are some critical scenarios that can cause severe damages to your turntable. Usually, a dirty stylus and an old cartridge are enough to damage the whole function (In this situation, better replace your turntable cartridge). Other factors like- poor tone arm, dirt on the record or surface is the worst indication to you.
Say goodbye to these as soon as possible.
Some Quick Tips to Elongate Turntable’s Life
You may have already implied several ways so that the turntable can treat better. But the best ones should be on your list to do.
Right off the bat, follow my simple but effective tips-
- Always try to make the anti-skate alignment correct. The center of the groove should catch that.
- You should use your visa card at least once in a year to change the belt.
- Keep away your turntable from every possible way of making unwanted vibration. Even it can be in your footsteps.
- For the vibrant problem, simple support may affect best.
- With a little wash with warm water and some detergent can improve the result dramatically.
- Regularly tune up your turntable to keep the game on.
- Keep an eye on the cleaning fluid. Don’t let them enter into the suspension.
- Use an anti-static cloth to clean the surface.
- For stubborn dust on the surface use rubbing alcohol on the cloth and then clean.
Summary Line
Summarizing all the words, it’s both you and us who want your turntable to stay fit for years to come. Regular tuning up, cleaning and maintenance are the only actions that can turn this wish into reality.
Best of luck to you beloved turntable!
Leave a Reply