I have a 401 on the way and I'm wondering what people use for a record weight or clamp? I do like the idea of being able to somewhat flatten say a dished record. I know when I had a VPI, the screw down clamp could noticeable flatten a slightly warped LP.
On my 401, I use my old clamp from my VPI Scout, and a copper plate on the platter. It handles the weight very well, and sounds good with a few different carts on my Dynavector 501 arm.
I prefer no clamp or weight. It closes down the soundstage and reduces the life of the music. I tried the SCuMat. It's very well made and looks excellent. However, I didn't like how it sounded on either of my 401s. It made the sound dry and brittle.
If using a clamp, it would seem that there is a 'right amount' of pressure. Just after the clamp has made contact with the record, and then touched the record to the platter. That would be at least reference or starting point for how much pressure is the right amount. Concerning the copper mat, I like the idea behind it. Are these copper 'plates' thick or thin? Do they have substantial weight, and of course, can you be sure that they are flat?
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