Why Are My Vinyl Record Skipping

 Vinyl records are a beloved format for music lovers, but they can also be delicate and susceptible to damage. One of the most common problems with vinyl records is skipping. Skipping can be caused by a number of factors, including dust, dirt, scratches, warping, and a misaligned cartridge.


Here are some of the most common reasons why your vinyl records might be skipping:

  • Dust and dirt: Dust and dirt can build up in the grooves of a record and cause the needle to skip. To prevent this, it is important to clean your records regularly with a record brush or cleaning solution.
  • Scratches: Scratches can also cause skipping. If you see a scratch on your record, you can try to buff it out with a soft cloth and a small amount of record cleaner. If the scratch is too deep, you may need to replace the record.
  • Warping: Warping can cause the needle to skip because it is no longer tracking the grooves of the record evenly. To prevent warping, it is important to store your records in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold.
  • Misaligned cartridge: If the cartridge that holds the stylus is not aligned correctly, it can cause the needle to skip. To check the alignment of the cartridge, you can use a cartridge alignment tool.
  • Other problems: Other problems that can cause skipping include a dirty stylus, a worn stylus, or a problem with the turntable itself. If you have tried all of the above tips and your records are still skipping, you may need to take your turntable to a professional to have it serviced.

Here are some tips to help you fix a skipping vinyl record:

  • Clean the record. This is the most common and effective way to fix a skipping record. Use a record brush or cleaning solution to remove dust and dirt from the grooves of the record.
  • Inspect the record for scratches. If you see a scratch, try to buff it out with a soft cloth and a small amount of record cleaner. If the scratch is too deep, you may need to replace the record.
  • Check the tracking force. The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the needle applies to the record. If the tracking force is too high, it can cause the needle to skip. To check the tracking force, consult your turntable's manual for instructions.
  • Check the anti-skate. The anti-skate is a feature that helps to keep the needle centered in the groove of the record. If the anti-skate is not set correctly, it can cause the needle to skip. To check the anti-skate, consult your turntable's manual for instructions.
  • Replace the stylus. The stylus is the needle that sits at the end of the tonearm. Over time, the stylus can wear out and cause skipping. If you have tried all of the above tips and your records are still skipping, you may need to replace the stylus.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to fix most cases of skipping vinyl records. However, if you are still having problems, you may need to take your turntable to a professional to have it serviced.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent your vinyl records from skipping:

  • Store your records in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep your records in their inner and outer sleeves.
  • Be careful not to get your records wet.
  • Handle your records with care and avoid dropping them.

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