Are you looking to upgrade your turntable setup?
If so, you may have heard about the benefits of using a cork slipmat instead of the traditional felt mat.
Cork offers improved sound quality, reduced resonance, and less static.
But is it worth the investment?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a cork slipmat and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your vinyl listening experience.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of cork slipmats.
Should I Get A Cork Slipmat
So, should you get a cork slipmat for your turntable?
The answer is, it depends.
Cork slipmats offer several advantages over traditional felt mats. They are less prone to static, which can be a major issue in dry environments. They also dampen resonance from metal tables, resulting in a tighter, more focused sound.
Additionally, cork mats are less likely to stick to your records, making them easier to remove after use. And some DJs even prefer the decoupled version of the cork mat, which raises the record up a little and can result in a bigger sound and more focused bass.
However, there are some downsides to consider as well. Some cork mats can start to flake over time, which could potentially damage your records. They may also not be as durable as felt mats and may not work as well on certain types of platters.
It’s also important to note that adding a cork slipmat will change the resonant characteristics of your turntable, which could ultimately change how your system sounds. You will need to reset your turntable’s VTA (vertical tracking angle) after adding a thicker mat, as it will throw off the adjustment.
Ultimately, whether or not you should get a cork slipmat comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your setup. If you live in a dry environment or are experiencing issues with static, a cork mat may be a good investment. If you’re looking for a tighter, more focused sound and don’t mind the potential downsides, it may also be worth considering.
However, if you’re happy with the sound of your current setup and don’t want to risk any potential issues with flaking or durability, sticking with a traditional felt mat may be the way to go.
What Is A Cork Slipmat?
A cork slipmat is a type of turntable mat made from a cork particle and rubber compound. It is designed to replace traditional felt mats and offers several advantages over them.
One of the main advantages of a cork slipmat is that it is less prone to static, which can be a major issue in dry environments. It also dampens resonance from metal tables, resulting in a tighter, more focused sound.
Cork slipmats are also less likely to stick to your records, making them easier to remove after use. Some DJs even prefer the decoupled version of the cork mat, which raises the record up a little and can result in a bigger sound and more focused bass.
However, it’s important to note that adding a cork slipmat will change the resonant characteristics of your turntable, which could ultimately change how your system sounds. You will need to reset your turntable’s VTA (vertical tracking angle) after adding a thicker mat, as it will throw off the adjustment.
The Benefits Of Using A Cork Slipmat
There are several benefits to using a cork slipmat for your turntable.
Firstly, cork is a naturally non-conductive material that is less prone to static than traditional felt mats. This means that your records will be protected from static buildup, resulting in a cleaner sound.
Secondly, cork is an inexpensive upgrade that can significantly improve the sound quality of your records. It reduces resonance and improves contact, resulting in a tighter, more focused sound. Additionally, cork mats are less prone to sticking to your records, making them easier to remove after use.
Thirdly, cork is an attractive material that offers unique finishes, from plain designs to intricate marble textures. This means that you can choose a cork mat that not only improves the sound quality of your records but also looks great on your turntable.
Lastly, some DJs prefer the decoupled version of the cork mat, which raises the record up a little and can result in a bigger sound and more focused bass.
The Drawbacks Of Using A Cork Slipmat
While cork slipmats offer several advantages over traditional felt mats, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making the switch. One of the main concerns is the potential for cork mats to flake over time. As the material wears down, tiny bits of cork could get lodged in your records, potentially causing damage.
Additionally, cork mats may not be as durable as felt mats and may not work as well on certain types of platters. This means that there may be some trial and error involved in finding the right cork mat for your specific setup.
It’s also important to note that adding a cork slipmat will change the resonant characteristics of your turntable, which could ultimately change how your system sounds. This means that you will need to reset your turntable’s VTA (vertical tracking angle) after adding a thicker mat, as it will throw off the adjustment.
While these drawbacks should be considered before making a decision, it’s important to remember that cork slipmats can still offer significant improvements in sound quality and anti-static protection for your records. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your setup.
How To Choose The Right Cork Slipmat For Your Turntable
Choosing the right cork slipmat for your turntable can be a bit of trial and error, but there are some factors to consider that can help guide your decision.
First and foremost, make sure the cork mat has an indent to house the record label, which will allow the record to lay nice and flat for improved contact. This is a key feature of the best cork mats.
Next, consider the sound characteristics you’re looking for. Cork mats tend to have a warm sound, somewhat like tubes, according to some experts. They also tend to dampen resonances more effectively than felt or material mats, resulting in improved sound quality and separation of detail within the music.
If you’re looking for a bigger sound with more focused bass, you may want to consider a cork slipmat that raises the record up a little with a decoupled design. On the other hand, if you want to brighten highs and tighten lows, an acrylic mat may be a better option.
It’s also important to consider durability and potential issues with flaking. Some cork mats may not hold up as well over time or could potentially damage your records. If this is a concern for you, it may be worth considering a combination mat with a cork top layer and rubber bottom layer for added grip and vibration absorption.
Finally, keep in mind that adding a thicker mat will require resetting your turntable’s VTA. This adjustment is crucial for maintaining proper tracking and sound quality, so make sure you’re comfortable with making this adjustment before investing in a cork slipmat.
Alternatives To Cork Slipmats
If you’re not sold on the idea of a cork slipmat, there are several other options to consider.
Felt mats are the most common alternative to cork, and they offer a few advantages of their own. They are generally cheaper than cork mats, and they work well with a wide variety of turntables. Felt mats also have a softer surface than cork, which can be beneficial for reducing stylus wear. However, they are more prone to static and may stick to your records more easily.
Leather mats are another option to consider. They provide a similar level of dampening to cork mats and can help broaden bass frequencies. However, they are more expensive than felt or cork mats and may not work as well with certain turntables.
Rubber mats are also available, and they offer excellent vibration damping properties. They can help reduce noise and improve overall sound quality. However, they may not be as effective at reducing static as cork or felt mats, and they may have a slightly harder surface that could potentially cause stylus wear over time.
Acrylic mats are becoming increasingly popular among audiophiles as well. They offer excellent control over resonance and can help improve overall sound quality. However, they may be more expensive than other options and may not work as well with certain turntables.
Ultimately, the best mat for your turntable will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your setup. Consider factors like price, durability, static reduction, and sound quality when making your decision. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials until you find the one that works best for you.
Final Verdict: Is A Cork Slipmat Worth The Investment?
After weighing the pros and cons of using a cork slipmat for your turntable, it’s clear that there are both advantages and potential drawbacks to consider.
On the one hand, cork slipmats can offer improved sound quality by reducing resonance, improving contact, and minimizing static. They are also easy to remove and some models can even raise the record up for a bigger sound.
However, there are also potential downsides to using a cork slipmat. These include issues with flaking over time, potential damage to your records, and the need to readjust your turntable’s VTA after adding a thicker mat.
Ultimately, whether or not a cork slipmat is worth the investment depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your setup. If you’re experiencing issues with static or want a tighter, more focused sound, a cork mat may be worth considering. However, if you’re happy with the sound of your current setup and don’t want to risk any potential issues with flaking or durability, sticking with a traditional felt mat may be the safer choice.
