VPI owners - please help

[BobM]

When I tighten my VPI clamp I tap the edge of the record with my fingernail. If the record is clamped firmly and correctly the tap will result in a deadened "chunk". If it's too tight you will hear a thin and crisp "click", meaning the record edge is not in contact with the heavy platter. Just adjust the clamp as appropriate and try again. It is easily heard and different records require different tension to seat them properly against the platter.

Enjoy,
Bob

[Sky]

Not to hijack this thread but I'm wondering.
I just got my HRX yesterday and I just drop my clamp down onto the record without any tightening. is there something wrong with my clamp/table? + I don't have a washer.

[lanny]

When I tighten my VPI clamp I tap the edge of the record with my fingernail.

Great minds think alike! I do exactly the same.

[lanny]

I just got my HRX yesterday and I just drop my clamp down onto the record without any tightening. is there something wrong with my clamp/table? + I don't have a washer.

Nothing is wrong. The HRX comes with a metal weight instead of the plastic screw-down clamp. Your weight is sold as an upgrade over the plastic clamp.

[33.3rpm]

The center weight on the HRX is exactly that, a weight. As such, no threading is provided. This only provides pressure on the record label and is intended to be used with the periphery ring clamp on VPI platters.

The Two piece delrin clamp of the lesser models utilizes a thin rubber fender washer on top of the platter. This washer works in combination with the dish on the underside of the two-piece clamp to force the record perimeter into contact with the platter since the periphery ring is not intended to be used.

In my experience with this clamping system, most people do not screw it down tight enough!. You will know when it is tight enough by tapping the inner lead-out groove with your fingernail to tell if contact with the platter has been made. If it is too tight, the record will begin to lift off the perimeter edge or your clamp will strip out! VPI does offer a stainless steel two-piece clamp as an option for encouraging snugger fitting.

Some vinyl records may not react well to the thickness of the rubber washer, this is analog after all . Feel free to experiment with spindle washers from SME, Oracle or carbon fiber such as what is offered with the Shelter Harmony.

If your record if flat, give the whole clamping system a rest...

Happy listening!

Happy listening

[Sky]

thanks!

[nickc123]

I have been using my Classic with the supplied clamp and it sounds great. The clamp seems to squeeze the air from under the LP and creates a vacuum to ensure positive coupling to the platter. When losing the clamp to decouple the record, you have to apply a little pressure to the edge to lift the record. At this point an audible noise can be heard as the underside of the record allows the air in. Nick

[bauzace50]

Hi,

my HW-19 Mk III has this same system. I like to use it, being extra careful of NOT tightening too much. As mentioned above, excessive tightening causes the LP to warp and lose contact with the rim.

My particular method of "correct" tightening is to look at the platter's rim and the LP to make sure of stopping the tightening just as the LP rim makes contact with the platter.

Some warped LPs will NOT make contact along the entire rim. With these, I stop tightening as soon as SOME part of the LP rim makes contact with the platter.

Alternative: place a mat on the platter and use the turntable as a regular design. Not my preferred option, but you may have luck with it.

Do experiment, and trust your ears,
bauzace50