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i just got my first decent turntable which included a screw-on record clamp. i'm not too sure about how snugly it's supposed to be set; i've just been stopped turning when i feel the slightest resistance. is this enough, or are you supposed to lock it very firmly?
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Other than experimenting for best sound, the "tests" suggested below depend upon the specific type of platter (whether a mat is used) and clamp used. So, what model TT are you using: which clamp?
a music hall mmf-5 with a glass platter and felt mat
I suspect you will be limited to experimenting on your own. Have fun.
Take a small scrap of paper and put it under the outer edge. Clamp down until the paper slips out. That means the edge is starting to raise. That is too much. Back off until the paper won't slip out. Memorize that amount of pressure. For me this is about a half turn past touchdown and not very tight.
Slightly easier, and doesn't require the slip of paper ...Lightly tighten till platter contact feels 'just solid'.
Spin it.
Gently tap the record-edge with the back of a fingernail.
Listen for 'just solid' contact as record rotates.Not ' clatter -y', or ' tink '-y, or tuned-up-in-pitch sounding, but, yup, just solidly in contact.
You'll get the feel for this relatively quickly.This is a less-is-more excercise, and even a little too much is probably worse than no clamp at all.
J.
*
groove
Some clamps will generate a very high force of hold down. Some, less so. If you manage to raise up, the outer edge of the record when clamping. Then yes, you might be using to much force. Myself believe the mat, in use/situ decides. Different mats, different force. As in .... what sounds best/most musical to you, per your set-up. Different mats work differently, and in turn will have a different affect on the outputted sound. Which in turn will/may change with weights or clamping (and quantity thereof).The only right/correct setting is the one that sounds best to you. I might suggest listening without the clamp, listening with a little force, and then with a lot. Seeing if any one 'setting' brings more of it for you? In the past, when using a thick or lossy mat, found a high force to my preference. Now (with different mat), simply using a passive weight (not clamp), of about 20 oz.
Many theories have gone by the interface river. I believe stability, no relative motion between the record and mat/interface/or platter to be the first goal. And the damping of the vinyl itself, just along for the (hopefully) added beneficial ride.
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