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4.226.3.20
In Reply to: RE: Reasons for distorted sibilance? posted by steven d on March 12, 2012 at 15:40:54
I suspect that the previous posters know what they're talking about.
So, my only comment is that 1.8 grams seems a lot. Why so much? (I'm tracking my Shure V15 IV at 1.0 grams, and my records are thanking me for the extended life of the upper frequencies.)
:)
Follow Ups:
"It is a common misconception that a lower tracking results in less record wear. While that statement is not totally incorrect, it does not tell the whole story. Although what we see (and the tonearm sees) is tracking force, this is not necessarily what the groove sees. Barring mistracking, which can result in permanent groove damage, the key to record wear is pressure per unit of surface area. Thus, stylus contact area is the key issue. Even if the tracking force is light, if the stylus contact area is small, the tracking force will be concentrated on a smaller area of LP groove, resulting in higher localized pressures and accelerated groove wear. Conversely, a higher tracking for with larger contact area is less damaging. The larger contact patch distributes tracking forces over a larger portion of that groove wall, reducing localized tracking pressures and minimizing groove wear."
Simple Grade 10 physics coming into play here.
You have the right to be offended, and I have the right to offend you. But no one has the right to never be offended.
- Ricky Gervais, 2011
Hey Inmate, for the BP, the only recommended TF I could find was on musicdirect.com where they recommended 1.5-2.0 grams. Sumiko website doesn't give any recommendations. Just now I brought it down to 1.4 and it sounded a bit thin, but airy and quick. My assumption is that with less TF the stylus is able to be more nimble?
You have the right to be offended, and I have the right to offend you. But no one has the right to never be offended.
- Ricky Gervais, 2011
Edits: 03/12/12
Lighter tracking force is only likely to make sibilance problems worse. You are much better tracking near the upper end of the suggested range than too low. Too light a tracking force can cause mistracking which will permanently ruin your records. The stylus loses the ability to stay in constant contact with the groove walls and bounces around, banging into them and taking little pieces out of them.
A few tenths of a gram extra weight aren't going to make a difference from a downforce/squishing down on the record standpoint, and will make sure the stylus maintains smooth contact with the groove walls.
If you're sure your alignment is correct, I'd try tracking a little heavier than 1.8g. Don't go heavier than the recommended range, but just inch it up a little.
Also, is this happening on all records? If it's only happening on used records, but not new ones, it could be that the previous owner damaged the records through mistracking or a worn needle.
^^ agree on tracking force approach. my experience too. better tracking with upper range # with all 3 of my carts. But, use ears. Vinyl is totally "local" -- what will make your system sing will require you to actually figure it out. Or a dealer lol.
/ optimally proportioned triangles are our friends
On both new and used records.
Regarding the recommended TF, there is no specification from Sumiko directly; only what is on the musicdirect page for the Black Pearl.
You have the right to be offended, and I have the right to offend you. But no one has the right to never be offended.
- Ricky Gervais, 2011
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