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Harshness/Distortion Question - Newbie

I'm new to turntables. I recently purchased a Music Hall MMF 2.2. Using the stock Music Hall "tracker" cartridge and have it hooked up to a Pro-Ject speedbox. I'm running it through a phono stage integrated into my Adcom GTP-500 receiver.

I've noticed with some recordings (Sinatra at the Sands, for example) that when I play it at modest volume levels I get distortion at the high end that I normally would not get at the same volume on my system listening to CDs. It's the sound you generally associate when you play a cheap boombox too loud, if that makes any sense. The record is in "ok" shape.

I suppose I am wondering if this distortion at the upper (treble) end is something associated with vinyl, or perhaps a limitation of my cartridge and/or lack of dedicated phono amp. (Note: I'm planning on buying a dedicated cambridge audio phono amp 640p when I can afford it).

Thanks for the help as always.

David
dmloring
daverz
487 posts
 
Yeah, gotta clean that stylus. I use a dry Discwasher stylus brush before every play (let the stylus rest on the bristles and use only back to front motion), and occaisonally the Onzo Zerodust gel. No liquids.

For the records, I use an Audioquest carbon-fiber brush. Sleevetown sells a cheaper one, and also the Zerodust.
hanaleimike
125 posts
 
for stylus cleaning I use the magic eraser. There is a thread or two on the subject. Magic eraser, dry brush=very clean stylus under a microscope. It is good you got a cleaning system, I was hesitant to buy a vpi 16.5 wondering if it was really worth it, I mean, my records "looked" clean. Best purchase ever.
If the alignment was done in a factory by the manufacturer, it is probably off, this is based on how much time it takes me to properly align my cartridge. You will also want to invest in a pressure gauge so you can properly set your vertical tracking force. Start asking google questions, many times you will be lead back to agon, but there is lots of excellent information out there, and I guaranty any question you may have has already been asked.
dmloring OP
34 posts
 
Great, thanks everyone
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