Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with that comes the need for a good turntable. But what happens when your turntable starts to wobble?
Is it normal, or is there something wrong? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why a turntable might wobble and whether or not it’s something to be concerned about.
From poorly made record players to warped spindles, we’ll cover it all. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of turntable wobbling.
Is It Normal For A Turntable To Wobble
Technically, a brand-new turntable isn’t supposed to wobble at all. However, a little variance is actually quite common. It’s normal for a vinyl record to have a slight wobble or exhibit some vibration when it is playing on a record player. But excessive wobble or vibration can cause problems with the tracking ability of the tonearm and cartridge and affect the sound quality.
Visible wobble may be normal for lower quality turntables, but zero wobbles is the industry standard for quality machines. Each individual will have their own level of wobble tolerance. A turntable wobble of 5 mm could be fine for most people, whereas someone who is very particular wouldn’t like that amount at all.
If your record player is wobbling visibly, you will need to fix it. In order to do that, you first need to determine what is causing the wobble. There are a few reasons a turntable might wobble, including a poorly made record player or a warped spindle.
If it is the record that is causing the issue, that’s not great, but it’s not the end of the world. The most likely cause of wobble is the platter (the thing your record sits on) that is causing the wobble. If you get down eye level, you can see if it is wobbling. The majority of record players have a little bit of wobble, and most of the time it does not make a difference to the sound.
What Causes Turntables To Wobble?
There are several reasons why a turntable might wobble. One common cause is an uneven surface. If the turntable is sitting on a surface that is not level, it can cause the platter to wobble as it rotates. This can be easily fixed by using a level to make sure that the turntable is even. If it is not, adjust the surface beneath the record player to make it level or adjust the turntable feet themselves.
Another common issue that can cause wobbling is a problem with the belt drive. Over time, these belts can become weaker and less reliable, causing the platter to wobble. If the belt happens to be too loose or not operating at a consistent speed, it could also cause a platter wobble effect. In most cases, the belt is located under the platter, and it’s common for them to expand over time as they age. Replacing an old belt should act as an instant fix unless something else is adding to that unwanted wobble.
A warped record or platter can also cause a turntable to wobble. Placing a slightly thicker or warped record on the platter can cause it to wobble slightly. If your machine has an old belt that turns it, getting replacement belts could solve the issue with the turntable not moving smoothly or other related issues.
Finally, poorly made record players can also cause wobbling. If you have a low-quality turntable, it may not be built to industry standards and may have issues with stability. In this case, you may need to upgrade to a higher quality turntable to eliminate any wobbling issues.
The Importance Of A Stable Turntable
Having a stable turntable is crucial for the best possible sound quality and longevity of your vinyl records. Excessive wobble or vibration can cause problems with the tracking ability of the tonearm and cartridge, leading to skipping or even damaging your records. A stable turntable ensures that the stylus stays in the groove, providing a clear and consistent sound.
While a little bit of wobble may not affect the sound quality, it is still important to strive for a stable turntable. The industry standard is zero wobbles, and many high-quality turntables achieve this. Even if you have a lower quality turntable, there are ways to fix the wobble and improve the stability.
Investing in a stable turntable may require spending more money, but it will pay off in the long run. Your records will sound better and last longer with proper tracking and less wear and tear from excessive movement. It is important to take care of your turntable and ensure that it is properly balanced on a stable surface to achieve the best possible sound quality.
How To Diagnose Turntable Wobbling
If you notice that your turntable is wobbling, there are a few steps you can take to diagnose the problem. Firstly, make sure that the turntable is sitting on a level surface. Use a level to check if the turntable is even. If it is not, adjust the surface beneath the record player to make it level, or adjust the turntable feet themselves.
Next, check if the platter is causing the wobble. Get down to eye level and observe if the platter is wobbling. The majority of record players have a little bit of wobble, but if it’s excessive, it could be causing problems with the tracking ability of the tonearm and cartridge.
If you’ve determined that the platter is causing the wobble, there are a few possible causes. One of the most common reasons for platter wobble is a warped record. Excessive heat can cause records to warp, and this can cause the platter to wobble as it rotates. If you suspect that a warped record is causing the problem, try playing a different record to see if the wobbling persists.
Another possible cause of platter wobble is an old belt that turns the turntable. If your player uses belts to turn, getting replacement belts could solve issues with the turntable not moving smoothly or other related issues.
Common Fixes For Turntable Wobbling
Fortunately, there are several common fixes for turntable wobbling. One of the first things to check is the surface on which the turntable is placed. Make sure it is level and stable. If the surface is not level, it can cause the turntable to wobble.
Another common cause of turntable wobbling is a loose or worn-out belt. Over time, belts can become weaker and less reliable, causing the platter to wobble. If this is the case, replacing the belt is a simple fix that can solve the problem.
Inspecting the platter mount and collar of the platter for dust or debris can also help eliminate wobbling. Any debris between the turntable and platter can cause uneven movement and affect sound quality.
If none of these fixes work, it may be necessary to take apart the turntable and check for any loose or damaged components. This can be a more complicated process, so it may be best to seek professional help.
When To Seek Professional Help For Turntable Issues
If you have tried to fix the wobbling issue on your turntable and it still persists, or if the problem seems to be more complex than what you can handle, it might be time to seek professional help. A professional turntable repair service can diagnose and fix the issue for you.
Some common issues that may require professional help include a damaged tonearm or cartridge, a bent or warped platter, or a motor that is not functioning properly. Attempting to fix these issues on your own can be risky and may cause further damage to your turntable.
Additionally, if your turntable is an antique or a high-end model, it’s best to leave the repairs to a professional. They will have the necessary expertise and experience to handle delicate components and ensure that your turntable is restored to its original condition.
When seeking professional help, make sure to do your research and find a reputable repair service with experience in repairing turntables. Ask for recommendations from friends or fellow vinyl enthusiasts, and read reviews online before making a decision. A good repair service will provide you with a detailed estimate of the repair costs before beginning any work, so you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the repairs.
