There
are various weights and record clamps on the market. But most of
them are either too heavy or they can not be used because of the
clamp mechanism.
For
light sub chassis models (Thorens TD166, TD160, Linn LP12, Ariston,
etc.) a very heavy weight is not recommended because it may effect
the proper functioning of the springs and thus will alter the resonance
of the design. If your suspended turntable is well adjusted than
the addition of this appr. 360 weight does not alter the suspension.
(See the
Turntable
Adjustement Page.)
A
screwable clamp (Michel, Goldmund, etc.) can not be used on a machine
like a Thorens TD124 for instance, or on a Roksan Xerxes 10 or 20
turntable (if you leave the spindle in).
When
a good turntable weight is used it will give a significant improvement
of definition, tangebility of sound and transient response. Furthermore
it will deminish distortion.
Some
audiophiles consider a record clamp-system like the Oracle or Goldmund
as the best solution. Others think that these clamps give tension
to the vinyl. The Oracle turntable has a threaded spindle
on which the clamp can be screwed down and the record automatically
is clamped down in a slightly convex manner.
The Goldmund solution is a clamp which is to be used with
their slightly concave turntable mat. The Goldmund consists of different
materials and that is important for its working and for the effectiveness.
A clamp should not have a negative effect on the frequency characteristic.
Screwable clamps have the disadvantage that additional pressure
has to be applied in order to obtain the maximum 'bonding' of record
and turntable mat (or nude platter) before it is screwed to the
spindle. And because of the pressure the bearing of some designs
could suffer in the long run.
I propose a pressure weight that can be used on practically every
type of turntable.
It is heavy enough to be effective, and it is light enough to not
interfere with the design of the turntable. On top of it this weight
can be handled easily because of its ergonomical design.
The
material, the volume and shape of a record weight is also important
for the sound and its function should always be related to the turntable.
The record weight I devised was first of all judged when listened
to on many different turntables. Beware of imitations.
Do
never trust manufacturers who start selling you a piece by telling
you that the object is beautiful. It should deliver the best sound
in the first place. Beauty is secondary.
The measurements are well chosen so that the headshell stays clear
from it when it reaches the inner grooves. The height however will
not allow most dustcovers to be closed when playing. (But who wants
to deteriorate the sound through playing with a dustcover on!)
The base of this design is 70 mm, but can be 80 mm, depending on
the aluminum staff which is available in the fatory or work shop.
With 7 cm you are on the safe side.
The percentage of lead in the aluminum has an influence on the dampening
effect of the clamp on the vinyl. This influence is however relatively
small and will only be more significant in high end systems.