Vinyl records
can be damaged by excessive tracking force. The exact threshold at which the record can be damaged depends on various factors, such as the quality of the record, the type of turntable, and the cartridge system used.
In general, it is recommended to use a tracking force between 1.5 and 3.0 grams, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications and the specific requirements of your cartridge. Too much tracking force can exert excessive pressure on the record, leading to premature wear or deformation of the grooves. In practice, however, even very high-quality cartridges with a tracking force of 4 grams linke Ortofon SPU are used without any negative experiences. On ultra-light tonearms, it is also possible to go as low as 0.75 grams without causing damage, as long as no distortions occur. Insufficient tracking force can cause problems when the tonearm does not apply enough pressure on the record to ensure stable playback. This can result in sound distortions, needle skipping, or skipping sections.
Therefore, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding tracking force and adjust the cartridge and tonearm counterweight accordingly to ensure optimal playback quality and protect your records, regardless of what the general consensus may be.
Shellac records
are more delicate than vinyl records and can be damaged even with relatively low tracking force. The exact limit depends on factors such as the quality, condition, and age of the shellac record.
In general, when using diamond styli, it’s recommended to use a very light tracking force of about 1.5 to 2.5 grams for shellac records. Applying too much force can make the shellac brittle or even cause it to chip, resulting in permanent damage. Shellac material is fragile and less resistant compared to vinyl.
It’s important to handle shellac records with care and adjust the tracking force precisely to avoid damage. Make sure your turntable has a tonearm that is suitable for shellac and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the recommended tracking force for shellac records.
Certain types of tonearms are generally not suitable for shellac records:
- Tonearms with high tracking force: Tonearms that exert high tracking force can apply excessive pressure on the delicate shellac records, leading to damage.
- Stiff tonearms: Tonearms with a rigid design or inadequate damping may not effectively absorb vibrations and shocks, increasing the risk of shellac damage.
- Modern tangential tonearms: Modern tangential tonearms specifically designed for precise vinyl tracking are often not suitable for shellac records. Their specialized tracking systems and high precision can damage the delicate shellac material.
If you’re using steel needles (gramophone), it’s normal to use a weight of around 100 grams. In this case, the relatively soft needle will actually wear out to protect the shellac. Therefore, it’s important to replace steel needles after every record.
It’s advisable to use a tonearm that is suitable for shellac records and provides a gentle and well-damped tracking. Tonearms with adjustable tracking force and anti-skating mechanism are also beneficial to ensure optimal tracking and minimal wear on shellac records.
Since shellac records are rarer than vinyl records, it’s recommended to handle them with extra care and seek professional assistance for playback or cleaning if needed to preserve the lifespan and value of these historical recordings.
