If you're a vinyl enthusiast, you know that handling your records properly is essential for their longevity and sound quality. Vinyl records are delicate, and even the slightest scratch or fingerprint can affect their performance. In this blog, we'll cover the dos and don'ts of handling your vinyl records safely.
Dos:
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Always handle vinyl records by their edges: The grooves on vinyl records are the most critical part of the sound system. If you touch them with your fingers, the natural oils and dirt can cause damage to the surface, resulting in a deterioration of sound quality. Always hold records by their edges, and make sure your hands are clean and dry.
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Use a record cleaning brush: Before you play a record, it's essential to clean it properly to ensure that no dust or dirt particles get stuck in the grooves. Use a record cleaning brush to remove any debris from the surface. It's a small investment that can make a big difference in the sound quality and lifespan of your records.
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Store your records vertically: Storing your records vertically is the best way to prevent warping or damage. If you stack records horizontally, the weight of the top records can cause them to warp or scratch, which can affect the sound quality. A simple record shelf is a great investment that will keep your records organized and prevent damage.
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Keep your records in protective sleeves: Protective sleeves are essential for protecting your records from dust, dirt, and scratches. Always keep your records in their sleeves when not in use, and make sure the sleeves fit properly to prevent any dirt from getting inside.
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Use a turntable mat: A turntable mat can help reduce the amount of vibration and static on your turntable. It can also provide a softer surface for your records to rest on, which can prevent scratching or warping. Look for a mat made of felt, cork, or rubber, which are all good materials for turntable mats.
Don'ts:
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Don't touch the surface of the record: As we mentioned earlier, touching the surface of a record with your fingers can damage the grooves and affect the sound quality. Avoid touching the surface of the record at all times, even when placing it on the turntable.
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Don't use abrasive cleaning solutions: Never use abrasive cleaning solutions, such as alcohol or Windex, to clean your records. These solutions can damage the surface of the record, and the chemicals can leave residue that can affect the sound quality.
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Don't expose your records to extreme temperatures or humidity: Vinyl records are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Don't expose your records to extreme heat or cold, or high humidity levels, as this can cause warping or cracking.
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Don't stack records horizontally: As we mentioned earlier, stacking records horizontally can cause damage and affect the sound quality. Always store your records vertically to prevent warping or scratching.
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Don't use a dirty or worn-out stylus: A dirty or worn-out stylus can cause significant damage to your records. Always make sure your stylus is clean and in good condition before playing your records. A worn-out stylus can cause skipping, distortion, and even permanent damage to the grooves.
Conclusion:
Handling your vinyl records safely is essential to ensure their longevity and sound quality. Follow these dos and don'ts to keep your records in top condition and enjoy your music for years to come. Remember, it's the small things that can make a big difference, so take the time to clean and store your records properly. With proper care, your vinyl collection will provide endless hours of listening pleasure.
Source: how to handle vinyl records
