Are you a vinyl enthusiast or a DJ looking to improve your skills?
If so, you may have heard of slipmats. These circular pieces of cloth or synthetic materials are placed on the turntable platter instead of the traditional rubber mat.
But what exactly are they for? And do you need one to play your records?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of slipmats and their uses, as well as provide some tips on how to use them properly.
Whether you’re a seasoned DJ or a casual listener, read on to learn more about slipmats and how they can enhance your vinyl experience.
Do You Play Records On A Slipmat
The short answer is yes, you should play your records on a slipmat.
Unlike the rubber mat that comes with most turntables, slipmats are designed to slip on the platter, allowing for more freedom of movement when manipulating a record. This is especially useful for DJs who scratch, mix, and back-cue records to create seamless transitions between tracks.
Slipmats come in various materials and thicknesses, with felt being the most popular choice among DJs. Felt slipmats allow for less stoppage when scratching or mixing and do not affect the sound as much as plastic slipmats.
But slipmats are not just for DJs. They can also be used as decoration when a record isn’t on the turntable. Some slipmats feature innovative designs with a plastic-like material on one side for better slip and less stoppage when manipulating the track.
It’s important to note that using a slipmat is not just a matter of preference, but also a matter of protecting your records. Placing a record directly on the turntable platter can cause scratches and damage to the vinyl. Using a rubber mat that comes with most turntables is suitable for casual listening, but if you want to protect your records and enhance your vinyl experience, a slipmat is the way to go.
What Is A Slipmat And How Does It Work?
A slipmat is a thin mat that is placed between the deck plate of a turntable and the vinyl record. Its primary purpose is to allow the record to spin freely while the deck plate continues to turn, which is especially useful for DJs who need to back-cue and scratch records to create seamless transitions between tracks.
Slipmats are typically made of synthetic fabric, with felt being the most popular choice among DJs. Felt slipmats allow for more freedom of movement when manipulating a record and do not affect the sound as much as plastic slipmats. Some slipmats also feature innovative designs with a plastic-like material on one side for better slip and less stoppage when manipulating the track.
Using a slipmat is essential for protecting your records from scratches and damage that can occur when placing them directly on the turntable platter. The rubber mat that comes with most turntables is suitable for casual listening, but if you want to protect your records and enhance your vinyl experience, a slipmat is the way to go.
Benefits Of Using A Slipmat For DJs And Vinyl Enthusiasts
For DJs and vinyl enthusiasts, using a slipmat has numerous benefits.
Firstly, slipmats allow for more precise cueing and back-cueing of records. DJs can quickly and accurately find the exact spot they want a cut to begin, creating seamless transitions between tracks. This is especially important for DJs who scratch and mix records, as it allows them to manipulate the record quickly and with ease.
Secondly, slipmats help to protect records from scratches and damage. Placing a record directly on the turntable platter can cause damage to the vinyl, but using a slipmat provides a protective layer between the record and the platter.
Thirdly, slipmats can improve sound quality by reducing pop and static. Some slipmats are designed with anti-static properties that help to dampen sound and reduce unwanted noise.
Finally, slipmats can also be used as a way to personalize your turntable. With various materials and designs available, slipmats can add a touch of style to your setup.
Different Types Of Slipmats: Cloth Vs. Synthetic
When it comes to slipmats, there are two main types of materials: cloth and synthetic. Cloth slipmats, usually made from felt, are the most commonly used by DJs. They have a soft texture that allows for less stoppage when scratching or mixing, making them ideal for turntablists. They also do not affect the sound quality of the record as much as synthetic slipmats. However, they can accumulate static, which can cause records to stick to the mat and make swapping records tricky.
On the other hand, synthetic slipmats are made from materials like plastic or acrylic. They are often slicker than cloth slipmats, allowing for smoother movement when manipulating a record. They also do not accumulate static like cloth slipmats do, making them a better choice for those who frequently switch records. However, some DJs find that synthetic slipmats can affect the sound quality of the record and cause more stoppage when scratching or mixing.
Ultimately, the choice between cloth and synthetic slipmats comes down to personal preference and intended use. DJs who prioritize smooth movement and less static may prefer synthetic slipmats, while those who prioritize sound quality and less stoppage may prefer cloth slipmats. It’s important to experiment with both types to find what works best for your vinyl experience.
How To Properly Use A Slipmat On Your Turntable
If you’ve decided to use a slipmat on your turntable, it’s important to know how to properly use it. Here are the steps you should follow:
Step 1: Remove the rubber mat from the deck plate. Slipmats are designed to replace the rubber mat that comes with most turntables, so you’ll need to remove it before placing the slipmat on the platter.
Step 2: Place the slipmat on the platter. Make sure it is centered and flat, with no wrinkles or bumps.
Step 3: Place your record on top of the slipmat. The slipmat will allow the record to spin freely while you manipulate it.
Step 4 (optional): If you’re a DJ and want to use the record stacking technique, place another slipmat between the records. This will allow for quicker access to the next record and also protect both records from scratches and damage.
It’s important to note that if you’re using a slipmat made of a different material than felt, such as plastic, it may affect the sound quality of your records. Felt slipmats are generally preferred by DJs because they allow for less stoppage when scratching or mixing and do not affect the sound as much as plastic slipmats.
Also, keep in mind that if you’re using a thicker slipmat made of materials like rubber or cork, you may need to adjust the Vertical Tracking Angle on your turntable to ensure proper tracking. This is especially important for DJs who need to move freely over the disc to find the next moment in a song.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using A Slipmat
While using a slipmat can enhance your vinyl experience, there are some common mistakes to avoid when using one.
First, make sure you have the correct VTA (vertical tracking angle) on your stylus. In order to set your record player up for DJ use, the VTA needs to be set to 0 degrees – straight up and down. This will allow the stylus to move freely when cueing or back-cueing a record. Using the standard 15-degree VTA will cause the stylus to shear off when scratching or back-cueing.
Another mistake to avoid is setting the wrong speed or size of the record before playback. Vinyl records come in different sizes and have different playback speeds. If you set the wrong speed or size, your record will either sound too fast or too slow, and the needle can get damaged as it will play against the platter or slipmat. So, before playback, make sure the settings and record match to avoid damages.
Lastly, avoid using a slipmat that is too thick or too thin. A slipmat that is too thick can cause the record to wobble and affect sound quality, while a slipmat that is too thin can cause the record to skip or slide around on the platter. It’s important to choose a slipmat that is compatible with your turntable and provides enough slip for your needs.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your slipmat enhances your vinyl experience without causing any damage to your records or turntable platter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slipmats
If you’re new to the world of vinyl and turntables, you may have some questions about slipmats. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand more about slipmats and their uses:
1. What is a slipmat?
A slipmat is a thin mat that is placed between the vinyl record and the turntable platter. Its purpose is to allow for more freedom of movement when manipulating a record, especially for DJs who scratch, mix, and back-cue records.
2. Do I need a slipmat for my turntable?
While it’s not necessary for casual listening, using a slipmat can protect your records from scratches and damage caused by placing them directly on the turntable platter. Slipmats are also essential for DJs who want to create seamless transitions between tracks.
3. What materials are slipmats made of?
Slipmats can be made of various materials, including felt, plastic, cork, and rubber. Felt slipmats are the most popular choice among DJs because they allow for less stoppage when scratching or mixing and do not affect the sound as much as plastic slipmats.
4. How do I choose the right slipmat for my turntable?
The thickness and weight of a slipmat depend on personal preference. Thicker and heavier slipmats weigh down the turntable platter, which slows down rotations. Thinner and lighter slipmats are easier to use but may deteriorate quickly. The size of a slipmat should match the size of your records.
5. Can slipmats be used for decoration?
Yes, some slipmats feature innovative designs that can be used as decoration when a record isn’t on the turntable.
In conclusion, using a slipmat is beneficial for protecting your records from damage and enhancing your vinyl experience, especially if you’re a DJ who wants to create seamless transitions between tracks. When choosing a slipmat, consider the materials, thickness, weight, and size that best suit your needs.
