6 Tips for maintaining your record player and LPs: Do's and Don'ts

1. Cleaning the needle

The needle is one of the most delicate and crucial parts of your record player. It is the point of contact with your vinyl records and plays a huge role in sound quality. A dirty or damaged stylus can not only reduce sound quality, but also damage your precious vinyl collection.

Do: Use a special needle brush

Use a special needle cleaner or a soft brush to gently clean the needle. Always move from back to front, parallel to the needle. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any remaining liquid.

Don't: Cleaning with raw materials

Avoid using cotton swabs or rough materials as these can damage the needle. Do not touch the needle with your fingers either. The needles are very thin and can be damaged easily.

2. Cleaning the platform

A clean platter is not only essential for a crystal clear sound, but also prevents your records from wearing out prematurely. So make sure you clean the plateau regularly.

Do: Use a soft, lint-free cloth

Start with a soft, lint-free cloth to gently remove dust and dirt from the platter. For a deeper cleaning, you can use special cleaning fluid designed for turntables. These fluids are formulated to effectively remove dirt without damaging delicate surfaces. Apply a small amount of liquid to the cloth, not directly on the platter, and gently wipe the surface in a circular motion. Tit helps remove any build-up of old dust or grease, without the risk of damage.

Don't: Suse abrasive cleaners

It is important not to use abrasive cleaners or rough cloths during the cleaning process. Abrasive materials can cause scratches and gouges on the surface of the platter. This not only negatively affects the appearance of your turntable, but can also lead to uneven surfaces.

3. Check drive belt

A worn or damaged drive belt can lead to inaccurate rotational speeds, which negatively affects sound quality. It can also cause further damage to other parts of the turntable. Therefore, check your drive belt regularly, if possible.

Do: Check the drive belt regularly

Check the drive belt regularly for wear and replace it if necessary.

1. Check if the belt is stretched, torn or worn.
2. Listen to the music. If the speed varies or you notice a fluctuation in pitch, this could indicate a problem with the drive belt.
3. Pull gently on the leash. If it stretches too easily, it's time for a new one.

Don't: Pull the drive belt too hard

Do not pull the drive belt too hard. Pulling too hard on the drive belt can stretch it, causing loss of tension. This can lead to uneven speeds and even a broken belt.

4. Remove dust and dirt

Do: Use aantistatic brush/cloth

Use an anti-static brush/cloth or compressed air to remove dust and dirt from the turntable.

An anti-static brush/cloth is specially designed to effectively remove dust and dirt without generating static electricity. This is important because static electricity can attract dust, leading to a vicious cycle of buildup.

Don't: Use vacuum cleaner

Do not use a vacuum cleaner. The suction of a vacuum cleaner is often too strong for the delicate parts of a record player. It can suck or damage small parts such as screws or even the needle.

5. Don't forget your vinyl records

By properly maintaining your vinyl records, you not only ensure better sound quality, but you also extend the lifespan of both the records and the needle of your record player. It's a win-win situation that every vinyl lover should strive for.

1. Always store your vinyl records in their case to prevent dust build-up. li>
2. Use an anti-static brush to clean your records before and after playing make.
3. Consider using special cleaning fluid for optimal sound quality.

6. Storing your vinyl collection is also important

Do's: Store vertically & use protective covers

Storing your vinyl collection is an art in itself. Make sure your records are always vertical to prevent warping and use quality protective covers for extra protection. The storage space is also crucial: a stable temperature and low humidity are ideal. Keep everything clean and dust-free, and provide sturdy shelves or cabinets that can handle the weight.

Don'ts: Horizontal stacking and direct sunlight

But there are also things you should absolutely avoid. To avoid damage, never stack your vinyl horizontally and keep them away from direct sunlight. Damp areas are a no-go, as is packing your collection too tightly.