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Nothing quite beats sitting down with a record, tuning out from the world and just absorbing the music. However, even the most reliable machines can sometimes encounter issues that disrupt your audio enjoyment. In this article you’ll find a checklist of some of the most common problems that can occur with turntables, as well as practical solutions to get your system back on track. So, let’s dive into troubleshooting your turntable and bring the sweet sound of vinyl back into your life.
If your turntable refuses to power up, start with the basics. Check the power cord connections to ensure they are securely plugged into both the turntable and the wall socket. Verify that the power switch is in the “on” position. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, try a different power outlet to rule out any electrical problems.
If it still doesn’t work then most likely the motor has gone, or there’s an electrical issue in the turntable’s wiring. This is the point where you should probably consult a professional technician for further examination and repair, unless you’re especially handy in that department yourself.
Firstly, if your record is playing really fast or slow then you’ve most likely just selected the wrong speed for the type of record you’re playing. This is easier than it sounds to do, as not every 12″ record runs at 33rpm. Check this first, the correct rpm is often written on the record’s label.
If your turntable is playing records slightly too fast or slow then the first thing to do is check the belt (if your turntable has one). Over time, belts can stretch or deteriorate, affecting the rotation speed. Replace the belt if necessary, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If your turntable utilises a direct-drive mechanism, it may have speed control settings that allow you to mike micro adjustments. Consult the user manual to adjust the speed accurately. In some cases, you might need to recalibrate the motor, which may require professional assistance.
A turntable that repeatedly skips can be frustrating. Several factors can contribute to this issue.
Start by checking the turntable’s leveling and positioning. Use a bubble spirit level to ensure that the surface on which the turntable rests is perfectly horizontal. Adjust the turntable’s feet as needed.
Skipping can also be caused by an improperly aligned cartridge. Use a protractor and an alignment block to ensure the stylus is correctly aligned with the grid lines on the protractor. Adjust the cartridge position accordingly. If you are unsure about cartridge alignment, consult a professional or seek assistance from an experienced audio enthusiast.
If your turntable can switch on but fails to spin when you press the play button, there could be several reasons behind this issue.
First, check the drive belt (if applicable) or the direct-drive mechanism for any signs of damage or wear. Replacing a worn belt is easy so long as you get the right replacement. if your turntable has a direct-drive mechanism then you’ll need to seek professional assistance for direct-drive repairs.
Additionally, inspect the platter mat to ensure it is clean and properly seated. A dirty or misaligned platter mat can hinder the turntable’s spinning mechanism. Clean or replace the mat as necessary. Again, this could be a sign that the motor has gone, or there’s an electrical issue in the wiring. Consult a specialist.
When the audio from your turntable sounds distorted, it’s time to examine the stylus and the records. A record with a lot of wear and noticeable scratches is obviously never going to sound perfect, and you’d expect considerable background noise, cracks and pops. But if that’s not the problem, then it could be the stylus; a worn-out stylus can greatly impact sound quality. If the stylus is old or looks damaged in any way replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, ensuring compatibility with your cartridge.
Dust and debris on records can also cause distortion. Utilise record and stylus brushes and/or gels to clean both the vinyl and the stylus before each play. Regular cleaning helps preserve the quality of your records and ensures optimal sound reproduction.
If your stylus keeps sliding across the surface of records without producing sound, it’s likely due to an improper tracking force.
Use a digital scale set to measure and adjust the tracking force of your turntable’s tonearm. Refer to the user manual or seek guidance from an expert to achieve the correct tracking force for your cartridge.
Additionally, consider using a record clamp. A record clamp helps stabilise the record on the platter, preventing slippage and improving tracking accuracy.
If your turntable isn’t producing sufficient volume or sounds unusually quiet (and it’s not just because you haven’t turned the volume up) the culprit might be the lack of a phono preamplifier (phono amp) in your audio chain.
A phono amp is essential for amplifying the low-level signal from your turntable’s cartridge to a line level suitable for your amplifier or receiver.
To resolve this issue, check if your turntable has a built-in phono preamp. If it does, ensure that it is activated or switched on according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your turntable lacks a built-in phono amp, you will need to acquire an external one. Connect the turntable’s output to the input of the phono preamp using the appropriate cables. Then, connect the phono preamp’s output to your amplifier or receiver. This setup will boost the signal and restore the volume levels, allowing you to enjoy your vinyl collection at the desired sound level.
As with everything audio, the selection of a phono preamp depends on your specific requirements, taste and budget. There is a bewildering range of options available, from entry-level to high-end models, solid-state to valve, all offering different features and sonic characteristics. Take your time to research and select a phono preamp that suits your needs and complements your overall audio system.
By incorporating a phono amp into your audio chain, you can ensure that the signal from your turntable is appropriately amplified, resulting in a significant improvement in volume and overall sound quality.
By following this checklist, you can troubleshoot and address some of the common issues that may arise with your turntable. Remember to maintain a clean and dust-free environment for your setup, regularly inspect and replace worn-out components, and seek professional assistance when needed. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable listening experience for years to come.
