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Do I need a record mat?

Hi,

This is a really stupid question. I have a Clearaudio Emotion turntable with an acrylic platform. It's unclear to me from the instruction manual whether I would need a mat to go on top of it. I am not talking about sound improvement per se (of course I am interested in that too if it helps), simply in terms of whether it would damage my record in any way without a record mat.

Thanks in advance for your help.
millicurie999
satch
329 posts
 
No need for a mat, but if you want to experiment, don't forget to change the VTA of your cartridge to accomodate for the difference in height. It would surprise me though if you'd prefer the sound with a record mat.
avphile
15 posts
 
You MUST EXPERIMENT. With one of the large tables (thick Acrylic platter), a Herbie Mat with a Carbon Fibre mat on top and then another Herbie mat (that's 3 total!!!!!) made a hell of a difference. Adjust VTA as you add. I think you can try the Herbie & send back? Good Luck.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
News Alert: Acrylic platters are now obsolete. They have been replaced by alumimum, VPI says. Harry finally listened to the customers. Bare acrylic can be improved with some of the better mats. Best to try different types, all should improve the sound over bare acrylic.
millicurie999 OP
57 posts
 
Thanks everyone. I got what I was looking for and then some more.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
It never hurts to experiment if you have the time.

Statements such as "No, acrylic platters do not need a mat" are absolutes and generally need to be ignored as they’re born out of inexperience.

Whether or not a mat will be beneficial is a factor of other considerations. Among them, the turntable itself, tonearm, cartridge, existing isolation/vibration control, and your personal listening preferences.

Also ignore "News Alert: Acrylic platters are now obsolete". That's just plain stupid.

Good luck.
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