If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, you know that keeping your turntable clean is essential to maintaining its performance and longevity.
And if you own a Technics 1200 turntable, you know that it’s a prized possession that deserves extra care.
But how do you clean it without damaging its delicate components?
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cleaning your Technics 1200 turntable, from the main turntable body to the pitch slider.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a beginner, our tips and tricks will help you keep your turntable in top condition for years to come.
So grab a soft cloth and let’s get started!
How To Clean Technics 1200 Turntable
First things first, let’s talk about the main turntable body. This is the part of the turntable that houses the platter and tonearm. To clean it, all you need is a moist, soft cloth and a gentle wipe down for dust. Be sure to use extra caution around knobs or the slider.
Speaking of the slider, this is where you’ll want to pay extra attention. The pitch slider is where your hand rests while adjusting the record’s BPM speed, and over time, it can accumulate a yellowish stain from hand grease. To clean this area, you’ll want to use cotton swab sticks with rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol ensures that it evaporates quickly and won’t short anything out by leaving water behind. However, if you don’t have rubbing alcohol on hand, you can also use a mild soap solution.
When cleaning your Technics 1200 turntable, it’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage its delicate components. Instead, stick to gentle cleaning solutions and soft cloths.
If your turntable is in need of more extensive cleaning or restoration work, there are professional services available that can help. These services can range from simple cleaning and calibration to full restoration and upgrades.
Preparing Your Technics 1200 Turntable For Cleaning
Before you start cleaning your Technics 1200 turntable, it’s important to prepare it properly. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your turntable is ready for cleaning:
1. Turn off and unplug your turntable: Before you begin cleaning, make sure your turntable is turned off and unplugged from the power source. This will help prevent any accidental damage to the electrical components.
2. Remove the dust cover: If your turntable has a dust cover, remove it carefully and set it aside. You can clean the cover separately using a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
3. Remove any records or accessories: Take off any records or accessories from the platter and tonearm. This will give you better access to clean the main turntable body.
4. Check for any visible damage: Take a close look at your turntable for any visible signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice any issues, it may be best to seek professional help before attempting to clean it
Cleaning The Main Turntable Body
To clean the main turntable body of your Technics 1200, start by using a moist, soft cloth to wipe away any dust or debris. Be sure to use extra caution when cleaning around the knobs or slider. For cleaning the slider, cotton swab sticks with rubbing alcohol are recommended. Rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly and won’t leave water behind that could potentially short out any components. However, if rubbing alcohol is not available, a mild soap solution can also be used.
It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your turntable, as they could potentially damage its delicate components. Instead, stick to gentle cleaning solutions and soft cloths. If your turntable requires more extensive cleaning or restoration work, consider seeking professional services that specialize in turntable maintenance and repair. These services can range from simple cleaning and calibration to full restoration and upgrades.
Cleaning The Tonearm And Cartridge
The tonearm and cartridge are two of the most important components of your Technics 1200 turntable, and they require special attention when it comes to cleaning. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the stylus or spindle, affecting the turntable’s sound quality and pitch.
To clean the stylus, you will need a stylus brush and a microfiber cloth. Gently brush the stylus from back to front, being careful not to bend or break it. Then, use the microfiber cloth to pick up any dirt or grime left behind. It’s important to always brush the stylus in this direction to prevent any damage.
If you don’t have a stylus brush, you can use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser instead. Gently lower the stylus onto the Magic Eraser and lift it until the stylus doesn’t leave any residue.
Once the stylus is clean, place the stylus guard on and spray compressed air to blow away any dust or dirt you collected. This will ensure that your stylus is completely clean and free from any debris.
Next, it’s time to clean the cartridge. The cartridge is located at the end of the tonearm and contains the needle that reads the grooves on your records. To clean it, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on it.
Finally, apply a small drop or two of lubricant at the base of the motor shaft and spindle. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe away any excess lubricant.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your Technics 1200 turntable in top condition and ensure that it continues to provide you with high-quality sound for years to come.
Cleaning The Pitch Slider And Speed Controls
One of the most common issues with Technics 1200 turntables is the pitch control slider and speed controls. Over time, these components can become dirty or worn, leading to erratic pitch or speed issues. Fortunately, cleaning these components is a relatively simple process that can be done at home.
To clean the pitch slider and speed controls, you’ll need an electrical contact cleaner, such as DeoxIT D5 or Caig Labs’ DeoxIT FaderLube. These cleaners are designed to dissolve dirt and grime on electrical contacts and potentiometers, leaving them clean and smooth.
To begin, remove the turntable’s platter and locate the pitch control slider and speed controls. If the slider is removable, take it out and set it aside. Then, apply a small amount of contact cleaner to a cotton swab or toothbrush and gently scrub the surfaces of the slider and controls. Be sure to get the cleaner into any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.
If the slider is not removable, you can still clean it by applying the cleaner through the slot in the turntable body. Simply insert the tube of the contact cleaner into the slot and spray a small amount onto the slider.
After applying the cleaner, move the slider back and forth several times to distribute it evenly. This will help to dissolve any dirt or grime that may be causing roughness or stickiness in the control.
Once you’ve cleaned the pitch slider and speed controls, allow them to dry completely before reassembling your turntable. If you notice any remaining roughness or stickiness in the controls, you may need to replace them with new parts.
