Are you tired of listening to your favorite vinyl records slightly out of time?
Don’t worry, adjusting the speed of your turntable is easier than you might think. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced audiophile, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.
In this article, we’ll explore two options: fixing it yourself or taking it to a professional. We’ll also provide step-by-step instructions on how to adjust the speed of your turntable, so you can enjoy your vinyl collection the way it was meant to be heard.
So, grab your favorite record and let’s get started!
How To Adjust Turntable Speed
Adjusting the speed of your turntable can be a simple process if you know what to look for. Here are the steps you can take to adjust the speed of your turntable:
Step 1: Check the Belt
If you have a belt-drive turntable, one possibility for slow down is that the belt is stretched or cracked. Belts usually last at least a few years without any issues, but it’s best to take the platter off now and again to check the belt. If the belt only seems slightly stretched and not degraded, you can try and shrink it back to size. Fold the belt in half and measure the size to make a note of. Place the belt in a pan, boil some water and add this water to the pan. Leave the belt to soak for around 5 minutes before taking out and drying. The belt should have shrunk slightly, so put it back on your record player and test the speed again.
Step 2: Adjust the Speed Screws
Some turntables have speed adjustment screws – check your owner’s manual to find out where they are located. Usually, turning these screws clockwise will speed up the platter, while turning them anti-clockwise will slow it down. Once you’ve amended the screws, test again with a strobe disc or phone app until you get the speed you desire. Make sure your turntable is stable and level when you adjust the screws, otherwise, the speed could be off when you put it back in its natural place and stance.
Step 3: Check for Blockages
If any of the above didn’t work, make sure that the belt isn’t rubbing on anything or check the motor and platter for any other blockages or ‘gunk’ that could be affecting the speed. If the problem still persists, try taking off the belt and adding a couple of drops of oil (fully synthetic and non-detergent oil) to the rotor shaft where it exits the motor and move it around a little so it will seep into the bushing. Clean off any excess oil and reattach the belt.
Step 4: Go To A Professional
If adjusting the speed yourself seems too complicated or you’re worried about damaging your turntable, take it to a professional to sort out. Prices vary depending on where you go, so shop around for places near you or ask a few vinyl buddies where to find a decent repair shop or record store that provides this service.
The Importance Of Proper Turntable Speed
Proper turntable speed is crucial for an optimal listening experience. If the speed is too slow or too fast, it can affect the pitch and sound quality of your records. In extreme cases, it can make the music unlistenable. Having a pitch adjustment on your record player is essential to ensure that your records are playing at the correct speed. It’s important to note that even subtle variations in speed can affect the overall sound quality of your records.
To ensure that your turntable is playing at the correct speed, you can use a strobe disc or a phone app to test it. Strobe discs have been used for years, but mobile apps have become a quicker and more affordable method. Some turntables even have a built-in strobe light to help you determine the speed of the platter.
If you encounter any issues with the speed of your turntable, it’s important to take action to fix the problem promptly. Check the belt for any signs of wear and tear, adjust the speed screws as needed, and look for any blockages that could be affecting the speed. Keeping your turntable well-lubricated and clean can also help prevent any undesired speed variances.
Step-by-Step Guide To Adjusting Turntable Speed
Now, let’s break down the above steps into a step-by-step guide for you to follow:
Step 1: Check the Belt
– Take off the platter and check the belt.
– If the belt is only slightly stretched, fold it in half and measure the size.
– Boil some water in a pan and add the belt to soak for around 5 minutes.
– Take out and dry the belt.
– Put it back on your turntable and test the speed again.
Step 2: Adjust the Speed Screws
– Check your owner’s manual to find out where the speed adjustment screws are located.
– Turn the screws clockwise to speed up the platter or anti-clockwise to slow it down.
– Test again with a strobe disc or phone app until you get the desired speed.
– Make sure your turntable is stable and level when adjusting the screws.
Step 3: Check for Blockages
– Make sure that the belt isn’t rubbing on anything.
– Check the motor and platter for any blockages or ‘gunk’ that could be affecting the speed.
– If the problem still persists, take off the belt and add a couple of drops of oil (fully synthetic and non-detergent oil) to the rotor shaft where it exits the motor.
– Move it around a little so it will seep into the bushing.
– Clean off any excess oil and reattach the belt.
Step 4: Go To A Professional
– If adjusting the speed yourself seems too complicated or you’re worried about damaging your turntable, take it to a professional to sort out.
– Shop around for places near you or ask a few vinyl buddies where to find a decent repair shop or record store that provides this service.
By following these steps, you should be able to adjust the speed of your turntable with ease. Remember to take your time and be patient, as adjusting turntable speed can be a delicate process.
Option 2: Taking Your Turntable To A Professional
If you’re not comfortable adjusting the speed of your turntable yourself or if you’ve tried and still can’t get it right, taking your turntable to a professional is always an option. A professional can diagnose the problem and fix it for you, ensuring that your turntable is working properly and producing high-quality sound.
To find a professional in your area, start by asking for recommendations from fellow vinyl enthusiasts or searching online for turntable repair shops. Make sure to read reviews and check the shop’s credentials before making an appointment.
When you take your turntable to a professional, be prepared to pay for their services. Prices can vary depending on the complexity of the problem and the location of the repair shop. However, paying for professional services can be worth it in the long run, as it ensures that your turntable is working properly and producing high-quality sound.
In addition to fixing the speed issue, a professional can also perform routine maintenance on your turntable to keep it in top condition. This may include cleaning and lubricating moving parts, replacing worn components, and adjusting other settings to improve performance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Professional
When choosing a professional to adjust the speed of your turntable, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, make sure that the professional has experience working with turntables and has a good reputation in the vinyl community. You can ask for recommendations from other vinyl enthusiasts or do some research online to find reviews and ratings of local repair shops.
Another important factor to consider is cost. Prices for turntable repairs can vary widely, so it’s important to get quotes from multiple professionals before making a decision. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best, as you want someone who will do a thorough job and ensure that your turntable is functioning properly.
It’s also important to ask about the turnaround time for repairs. Some professionals may be able to complete the repair quickly, while others may have a longer wait time due to a backlog of repairs or limited availability.
Finally, make sure that the professional offers a warranty or guarantee on their work. This will give you peace of mind knowing that if any issues arise after the repair, you can bring it back and have it fixed without incurring additional costs.
