How To Play 78s On A Turntable

Are you a fan of vintage music and have a collection of 78 RPM records?

Playing these records on a modern turntable can be a bit tricky, but fear not! With the right equipment and knowledge, you can enjoy the rich sound of these antique records.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of playing 78s on a turntable, including the importance of using the correct stylus and equipment.

So, dust off those old records and let’s get started!

Playing 78 RPM records on a modern turntable requires a few important considerations. First and foremost, it is crucial to ensure that your turntable can spin at 78 RPM. This is the defining factor of a 78 and without this speed, the record will not play properly.

Secondly, it is important to determine if you are playing larger groove records or microgroove at 78. If it is microgroove, then you are ready to play. However, if it is an antique 78, you will need to get a stylus that can read these different sized grooves.

A turntable with variable speed adjustment is necessary to cover the range from about 60 to 90 RPM. A good quality tone arm containing a stereo cartridge and styli that have been retipped for playing 78s is also important. An amplifier that can select mono as well as stereo and reproduce the different equalisations used in the 78 era is ideal. High-quality loudspeakers are also necessary to ensure the best sound quality.

It is easy to think that 78 RPM discs, with their limited acoustic range compared to modern recordings, do not require good loudspeakers. However, the opposite is true. High-quality loudspeakers will enhance the sound quality of your vintage records.

When it comes to choosing a stylus for your turntable, it is important to select one that matches the cartridge. A stylus with a wider conical shape is necessary for playing 78 RPM records as they have wider grooves than vinyl records. This will make better contact with the wide grooves allowing for much better sound performance when playing a 78.

It is also important to note that different types of 78 RPM records require different stylus diameters. A stylus with a diameter of 3 mil is necessary for shellac albums and a stylus with a diameter of .6 mil is designed for 78 RPM vinyl records.

Understanding 78 RPM Records

78 RPM records were the standard format for recorded music before the introduction of the plastic, long-playing (LP) record in 1948. These earlier records were made of shellac, a resin secreted by the lac bug, mixed with a ground-slate filler to make them hard enough to support an acoustic-gramophone tone-arm weight measured in ounces. The decision to support replay with acoustic machines well into the electrical recording period contributed to the harsh, surface-noise that we associate with pre-vinyl records.

One notable difference between 78 RPM records and 33 or 45 vinyl records is their size. While 45s are typically 7 inches, 78s and 33s can be either 10 or 12 inches. Additionally, 78s hold about five minutes of music, while 33s hold up to approximately 20 minutes.

The most significant difference in the performance of 78 shellac records and vinyl records is the wider grooves on 78s. This means that a stylus specifically designed for playing 78 RPM records is necessary for optimal sound quality. The stylus must have a wider conical shape to make better contact with the wide grooves and provide better sound performance.

It is also important to note that different types of 78 RPM records require different stylus diameters. A stylus with a diameter of 3 mil is necessary for shellac albums, while a stylus with a diameter of .6 mil is designed for 78 RPM vinyl records.

Finally, it is important to note that 78 RPM records are mono and are only heard through one channel. High-fidelity sounds are heard through vinyl records. Therefore, it is important to have an amplifier that can select mono as well as stereo and reproduce the different equalisations used in the 78 era for optimal sound quality.

Choosing The Right Turntable For 78s

When it comes to choosing the right turntable for playing 78s, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the turntable has variable speed adjustment capabilities. This is because many 78s were not recorded at exactly 78 RPM, with speeds ranging from 60 to 90 RPM. A turntable with variable speed adjustment will allow you to play 78s at their correct speed, ensuring the best sound quality.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the tonearm and cartridge. A good quality tonearm containing a stereo cartridge and styli that have been retipped for playing 78s is necessary for optimal sound performance. Additionally, an amplifier that can select mono as well as stereo and reproduce the different equalizations used in the 78 era is ideal.

When it comes to selecting a turntable, there are several options available. One option is a second-hand variable-speed Goldring-Lenco unit, one of the ‘GL’ series. These turntables are still easy to find and relatively cheap. However, they may require some basic maintenance, including a new idler wheel and cleaning and re-greasing of the main bearing.

Another option is the modified Technics SL1200, which is a high-quality, ruggedly built unit capable of seriously good results. This turntable comes complete with an arm and removable headshell, which is a necessary feature with the need for different styli.

It is important to note that some turntables may not support 78 RPM records or may not provide the appropriate stylus for playing them. Therefore, it is essential to verify the playback speeds that a turntable supports before purchasing it. Also, be aware that different types of 78 RPM records require different stylus diameters.

Selecting The Correct Stylus For 78s

Selecting the correct stylus for playing 78 RPM records is crucial to ensure the best sound quality and prevent damage to your vintage records. Regular stylus used for vinyl records will not work for 78s as they have wider grooves. A stylus with a wider conical shape is necessary for playing 78 RPM records as it will make better contact with the wide grooves allowing for much better sound performance.

When selecting a stylus, it is important to match it with the cartridge. Audio-Technica offers a few different 78 RPM cartridges to choose from, each with recommended uses based on the material from which your records were made or the year they were released, as well as the condition of those 78 RPM records.

One popular choice for playing 78s is the Audio Technica VM670SP cartridge, which has a specialized body and internal wiring dedicated to monaural sound reproduction, plus a large curvature radius conical stylus. This stylus provides excellent bass response and reduces annoying surface noise that using an incorrect stylus on 78s will provide.

Adjusting Turntable Settings For 78s

Adjusting your turntable settings for 78s requires some specific steps to ensure the best sound quality and prevent damage to your turntable. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Find a sturdy surface for your turntable. This will prevent any unwanted vibration that can produce an annoying hum and spoil your music.

2. Balance the tonearm. This is the trickiest and most important part of setup. Read the instructions carefully as all turntables vary slightly. Attach the belt (if there is one), place the platter on the spindle, and attach the headshell – the bit that holds the cartridge and stylus. Install the counterweight on the back end of the tonearm, usually by screwing it on. Set the anti-skate dial (the small numbered wheel next to the tonearm) to 0. This provides a small force to stop the tonearm naturally skating towards the center of the record. While gently supporting the headshell, move the tonearm into position above the platter. Adjust the counterweight at the back of the tonearm, usually by rotating it, until the tonearm can float on its own, parallel to the surface of the platter. At this point, it has a tracking weight of 0g. Tracking weight tells you how much force is being put on the stylus. Next, set the arm tracking weight dial to 0. You’ll probably find this on the counterweight. Now rotate the whole counterweight to the correct tracking force – this will be given in grams in the manufacturer instructions and varies according to the type of cartridge being used. Lastly, lock the tonearm back into its rest and adjust the anti-skate dial to match the tracking weight.

3. Hook up your cables correctly. A lot of decks come with RCA or phono cables – with red and white plugs on each end – for hooking up to stereo speakers. If you’re using a smaller all-in-one speaker, you might need to invest in a phono-to-3.5mm jack cable. There’s usually a diagram in your instructions that tells you what goes where.

4. Choose your speed carefully. Make sure you select the correct speed for the record you’re playing – too slow and it’ll sound like it’s dying, too fast and it’ll sound like Alvin and The Chipmunks! For most 12-inch records, you’ll need 33 RPM, while most 7-inch discs play at 45 RPM. Some older 10-inch records play at 78 RPM (usually referred to as 78s). Only three-speed turntables can play these.

By following these steps, you can adjust your turntable settings for playing 78s and enjoy high-quality vintage music without damaging your turntable or compromising sound quality.

Cleaning And Maintaining 78 RPM Records

Cleaning and maintaining 78 RPM records is crucial to ensure their longevity and optimal sound quality. Here are some tips to keep your vintage records in top condition:

1. Clean your records with a carbon fiber brush before and after each play. Regular maintenance is vital to prevent buildup of dust and debris that can cause scratches and affect the sound quality.

2. Use distilled and de-ionized water to clean your records. Tap water can contain minerals and impurities that can damage the record surface.

3. Avoid using rubbing alcohol to clean a record, as it can remove the shine and damage the surface.

4. Remove surface debris before cleaning the record to avoid pushing dirt deeper into the grooves.

5. Ensure that the cartridge and stylus are clean and in good condition to prevent damage to the record surface.

6. Only use a carbon fiber brush to gently brush over the surface of the record, avoiding deep-cleaning the grooves.

7. If possible, invest in a quality vinyl record vacuum cleaner for the best cleaning results.

8. Clean new records before playing them, as they may not be free of debris from manufacturing.

9. Store records vertically in plastic sleeves, avoiding stacking them on top of each other to prevent damage.

10. Never touch the surface of a record with your fingers or any other object, as oils and dirt from your skin can cause damage.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your 78 RPM records remain in top condition for years to come, providing you with high-quality sound as you enjoy your vintage music collection.

Enjoying The Rich Sound Of Vintage Music

Playing vintage 78 RPM records on a turntable can be a unique and rewarding experience. These records were made during a time when music was recorded in a raw and unpolished way, giving them a unique sound quality that cannot be replicated in modern recordings.

To fully enjoy the rich sound of vintage music, it is important to have the right equipment and setup. A good turntable with variable speed adjustment, a quality tone arm, and a stylus that matches the cartridge is essential. Additionally, an amplifier capable of selecting mono as well as stereo and reproducing the different equalisations used in the 78 era is ideal.

When playing vintage 78s, it is important to handle them with care. These records are delicate and can easily become damaged if not handled properly. Always handle them by the edges and avoid touching the playing surface. Clean them with a soft brush or cloth before playing to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.

To fully immerse yourself in the vintage music experience, consider listening to your records in a quiet environment with no distractions. This will allow you to fully appreciate the nuances of the music and the unique sound quality of the records.

In conclusion, playing vintage 78 RPM records on a turntable can be a rewarding experience for any music lover. With the right equipment and setup, you can enjoy the rich sound of vintage music and appreciate the unique qualities of these records. So go ahead and dust off those old records and start enjoying the rich sound of vintage music today!