Mistakes to Avoid While Using a Vinyl Record for the First Time

Posted by impress vinyl on December 19th, 2022

Vinyl records have made a huge comeback. Setting up a system for listening to vinyl pressings requires patience and meticulous attention. Whether you are looking to buy a record player for the first time or are just starting to collect records, it can be an overwhelming experience.

Listening to vinyl records is not as straightforward as tapping on a song on a device. Setting the system up is an art. If not done right, it can spoil the listening experience. You want to make sure that you do not make the same mistakes other people make while using a vinyl record for the first time. Read on to know what common mistakes you can steer clear off to make the most of your vinyl records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using Vinyl Records

So, you have just got a vinyl pressing done and are looking forward to listening to it. You are eagerly waiting for the warm tones of vinyl-produced music to wash over you. But before you do that check if you are not making any of these rookie mistakes so that you can have the best audio experience with your vinyl records.

• Using the wrong kind of turntable – The wide variety of vinyl players available in the market can make the process of choosing one quite overwhelming. And at this point, the easiest thing to do would be to buy an all-in-one vinyl player which has in-built speakers, radio, Bluetooth, and more. But avoid going down this route and instead opt for a good quality vinyl player that will offer improved audio fidelity and a better range of sound. And while you are at it, make sure that the player you buy has a turntable mat that is of good quality. Avoid materials that attract dust or generate static as this can adversely affect the sound quality and spoil your vinyl records. Mats made of cork or rubber are good options.
• Not using an external amplifier – If you are getting a weak output, chances are it’s because you need an external device for the amplification of the sound. Some vinyl players have an in-built amplifier in which case you can directly hook up the player to your speakers. But if the player has only Phono option and no Line option, then you will need to connect the player to an external amplifier which then gets connected to the speakers. This will solve the issue and give you the proper sound from the vinyl.
• Neglecting the placement of the turntable – Turntables are built to operate on flat surfaces. So, make sure that you have placed the vinyl player on a level surface. You can also use adjustable turntable feet to ensure the same. Also, don’t place the vinyl player too close to the speakers to avoid feedback.
• Ignoring the settings – This is an important one as playing a vinyl record does not mean just placing it on the turntable and placing the stylus on the vinyl. One has to check the settings too. Vinyl pressing is done mostly in two sizes – 7 inches and 12 inches. If your setting is for a 12-inch vinyl record but you are playing a 7-inch disk then ultimately the needle will play against the turntable mat and it can get damaged. Another setting that needs to be checked is of the playback speed. Vinyl records are produced at different speeds – 33 1/3, 45, and 78 rpm (revolutions per minute). Let’s say you play a 12-inch vinyl record that has been recorded at 33 1/3 rpm at 45 or 78 rpm, the pace and the pitch of the music will sound off. So, take care of these settings before sitting back to enjoy the music.

One of the most important secrets for vinyl collectors to get the best out of their records lies in the handling and storage of vinyl records. We list a few useful tips in the next section.

Tips for Storage of Vinyl Records

• Don’t stack your vinyl records on top of each other as this can lead to warping and scratching of the records. Take care to place the disks inside the vinyl record sleeves and then the jacket and place them flat without any heavy weight over them.
• The best way to store your vinyl records is to place them vertically but not slanting to one side as that can also put pressure on the disks and bend them.
• Always hold the vinyl by the edges and don’t let your fingers touch the grooves. This ensures that there are no smudges and prints on the disk which can potentially mar the sound quality. Also, make sure to place the disks inside the vinyl record sleeves once you are done listening to them.
• Lastly, make it a habit to clean your vinyl records. This will keep them free of dust and impurities and preserve their sound quality.

Winding Up

By following a few simple tips, you can get the best out of your vinyl listening experience. With just a little patience and care, your vinyl records will reward you with amazing music for years.

And if you are looking to augment your vinyl collection then look no further than Impress Vinyl. With 20 years of experience in servicing musicians and labels, we have the depth to deliver end-to-end solutions in vinyl pressing. We produce 7-, 10- and 12-inch vinyl records, and design and create custom vinyl too. Our super-fast delivery times and test press options make our service most impressive and appealing. And with our competitive rates, you will be glad to bring your project to the team at Impress Vinyl.