Vinyl records remain popular with the Official Charts continuing to list the best-selling records of the year. And, if you’re the proud owner of a record player and vinyl collection, you’ll want to ensure you take good care of it, so it remains in good condition.
There are various elements to consider when preserving your vinyl record player including cleaning, storage and maintenance. We’ll take a look at the best ways to maintain your equipment and make sure it performs at its optimum, however old your collection is.
Record cleaning
Vinyl records are likely to accumulate dust, dirt, and debris and are prone to scratches. These can all affect sound quality and cause damage over time. Extreme temperatures, humidity and moisture can also result in damage, reducing performance.
To prevent this from happening, handle your records with care and avoid leaving fingerprints on the surface. Keep them away from dusty environments and clean your turntable with a suitable cloth. While you won’t be able to avoid all dust and debris, keeping the lid closed whenever possible will act as a barrier and stop dust and dirt from gathering.
Turntable calibration
Proper calibration of your turntable is essential, with each component contributing to the playback. You’ll need to consider turntable cartridge alignment, tracking pressure and the anti-shake settings. You’ll also need to be careful not to damage the stylus.
It’s wise to follow the manual to ensure you carry out the task correctly if you’re making any adjustments. Although it might seem like a challenging job, taking the time to calibrate your record player will ensure enhanced sound quality.
Stylus care
The stylus, or needle, is an extremely delicate component that makes direct contact with the vinyl grooves. It should sit snugly in place, but you can expect it to wear over time, meaning you’ll probably need to replace it. This is especially true if it fails to sit in the correct location or if sound quality reduces.
Proper storage
Vinyl records should be stored in a suitable environment to prevent accidental damage such as scratches. Keep them in their covers when not in use and invest in a good shelving system or storage unit.
Keep your turntable out of reach of small children and pets and don’t store anything on top of it.
Professional maintenance
In some cases, you might need to seek professional assistance for turntable maintenance or repairs, especially if there are components that need replacing and you’re unsure how to complete the task.
Ensuring your turntable and records are kept in good shape will mean you can enjoy them for years to come. And, as vinyl sales outperform other physical forms of music, it’s an investment that could prove valuable should you ever wish to sell them or pass them on to someone else.