Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with that comes the need for a reliable turntable.
However, even the best turntables can experience wobbling issues that can affect the sound quality of your favorite records.
Whether it’s due to a loose belt or a poorly balanced surface, turntable wobble can be frustrating to deal with.
But fear not, as we’ve compiled some tips and tricks to help you fix turntable wobble and get back to enjoying your vinyl collection.
From replacing belts to adjusting components, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of turntable maintenance.
How To Fix Turntable Wobble
One of the most common causes of turntable wobble is a loose or worn-out belt. Over time, the belt can become weaker and less reliable, causing the platter to wobble and affecting the sound quality of your records.
To fix this issue, you’ll need to replace the belt. You can find tutorials online to guide you through the process, or you can take your turntable to a professional for assistance.
Another cause of turntable wobble is a poorly balanced surface. If your turntable is not sitting on a level surface, it can cause the platter to wobble and affect the sound quality of your records.
To fix this issue, make sure your turntable is sitting on a level surface. You can use a spirit level to check if your turntable is balanced correctly. If it’s not, adjust the feet or use shims to level it out.
If your turntable is still wobbling after checking the belt and surface balance, it may be due to a component that has moved out of place. In this case, you’ll need to open up your turntable and check for any loose or damaged components.
If you’re not comfortable with opening up your turntable, take it to a professional for assistance.
Identifying The Causes Of Turntable Wobble
There are several causes of turntable wobble that you should be aware of. One common cause is a loose or worn-out belt. Over time, the belt can become weaker and less reliable, causing the platter to wobble and affecting the sound quality of your records.
Another cause of turntable wobble is an uneven surface. If your turntable is not sitting on a level surface, it can cause the platter to wobble and affect the sound quality of your records. Using a spirit level to check if your turntable is balanced correctly can help you identify this issue.
If your turntable is still wobbling after checking the belt and surface balance, it may be due to a component that has moved out of place. In this case, you’ll need to open up your turntable and check for any loose or damaged components.
It’s also worth noting that some turntables, particularly entry-level models, may have subpar production tolerances that can cause platter wobble. This can be fixed by replacing the subplatter with a steel or aluminum one made to tighter tolerances.
Lastly, it’s important to check if your records are warped. Records that are not perfectly flat can cause a slight wobble in the platter, which can affect the sound quality. If you suspect that your records may be warped, try playing them on another turntable to confirm.
By identifying these causes of turntable wobble, you can take steps to fix the issue and ensure that your records sound their best.
Replacing The Belt
If you have determined that the belt is the cause of your turntable wobble, you’ll need to replace it. Before you begin, make sure your turntable is unplugged and the platter is not spinning.
To locate the belt, look for it around the motor pulley or a separate belt pulley. Gently lift the belt off the pulley using a small flat-head screwdriver or a belt tool if necessary.
Once the old belt is removed, you can either stretch it by pulling gently on both ends if it was too tight, or replace it with a new belt if it was too loose or worn out. Make sure to use the correct size for your turntable, which can be found in the instruction manual.
To put the stretched or new belt back onto the pulley, carefully place it and make sure it is affixed properly. Plug in your turntable and test the belt tension by spinning the platter by hand. The belt should be tight enough to turn the platter but not so tight that it causes any resistance or binding.
If you have any issues with replacing the belt or are unsure about how to do it correctly, consider seeking assistance from a professional. Remember to always handle your turntable with care and avoid damaging any components during the replacement process.
Balancing The Turntable Surface
Balancing the turntable surface is crucial to prevent wobbling and ensure the best sound quality possible. A turntable that is not sitting on a level surface can cause the platter to wobble, which can affect the sound quality of your records.
To balance the turntable surface, you can use a spirit level to check if your turntable is sitting on a level surface. If it’s not, adjust the feet or use shims to level it out. It’s important to make sure that all four feet are in contact with the surface and that they are adjusted evenly.
If you’re using a stand or shelf for your turntable, make sure it’s stable and not wobbling itself. Any movement in the stand or shelf can cause the turntable to wobble as well.
It’s also important to consider the weight of your turntable and the surface it’s sitting on. A heavy turntable on a lightweight stand may cause wobbling due to instability. Make sure that the stand or shelf is designed to support the weight of your turntable.
In addition, consider using isolation pads or a turntable mat to help absorb any vibrations that may be affecting your turntable’s performance.
By balancing the turntable surface, you can help prevent wobbling and ensure that your records sound their best.
Adjusting The Tonearm
Another potential cause of turntable wobble is an improperly balanced tonearm. If the tonearm is not balanced correctly, it can cause the stylus and tonearm to float higher than their mass, leading to wobbling.
To adjust the tonearm, start by checking the counterweight balance. If the stylus and tonearm are too light, they will float higher than their mass and cause wobbling. Adjust the counterweight until the tonearm is level.
If the tonearm is still wobbling, check the bridge adjustment screw. This can also be a symptom of an issue with the bridge. If this doesn’t work, then the most probable cause is the damping capability of the cueing lever.
The cueing lever mechanism is lubricated with fluid that helps to control the drop of the tonearm, and over time this fluid can see its effectiveness degrade as it dries out and loses its viscosity. You’ll need to carefully apply some fresh cueing lever mechanism damping oil to the area. This isn’t a complicated process and is relatively straightforward.
By following these steps to adjust your tonearm, you can help eliminate turntable wobble and enjoy high-quality sound during playback. Remember to take your time and be patient with these adjustments, as they may require some trial and error before achieving optimal results.
Cleaning And Lubricating The Turntable Components
Cleaning and lubricating your turntable components is an important step in fixing turntable wobble. Over time, dirt and grime can build up on the components, causing them to become less reliable and affecting the sound quality of your records.
To clean the components, remove the platter and clean the bearing with a soft cloth. You can also use a small amount of oil to lubricate the bearing, but make sure to use the correct type of oil recommended by the manufacturer.
Additionally, the motor shaft should also be oiled to ensure proper speed and performance. Technics recommends doing this after every 2,000 hours of service. Use a precision needlepoint applicator to apply two to three drops of oil to the shaft.
If you’re experiencing issues with the tonearm lowering too fast, it may be due to a problem with the bridge or cueing lever mechanism. Try adjusting the bridge screw first, and if that doesn’t work, apply fresh cueing lever mechanism damping oil to the area.
Make sure to choose the right viscosity of dampening fluid based on the weight of your tonearm. Apply a small amount of fluid carefully to avoid over-applying.
Cleaning and lubricating your turntable components may require some effort, but it’s worth it for maintaining proper function and sound quality. If you’re unsure about any step in this process, seek assistance from a professional.
Seeking Professional Help: When To Call A Technician
While some turntable wobble issues can be fixed with DIY solutions, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help. Here are some situations where you should call a technician:
1. If you’re not comfortable working with electronic components or opening up your turntable, it’s best to call a technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix the issue.
2. If you’ve tried replacing the belt and balancing the turntable, but the wobble persists, it’s time to call a technician. They can check for more complex issues that may be causing the problem.
3. If your turntable is still under warranty, it’s best to call the manufacturer or authorized repair center for assistance. Attempting to fix the issue yourself may void the warranty.
4. If you’ve accidentally damaged a component while attempting to fix the turntable yourself, it’s best to call a technician. They can assess the damage and replace the component if necessary.
Remember, attempting to fix complex issues without the proper knowledge and tools can cause further damage to your turntable. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and call a technician if you’re unsure about how to proceed.
