2. analog
  3. 1081526433

Is your turntable spinning while you clamp down?

I just got back into vinyl and I bought an inexpensive KAB clamp. So far, so good, but putting and removing the clamp can be a pain. What is the proper method? Do I turn off the turntable, change the clamp, or is it ok to clamp down and partially stop the turntable from spinning while I do this? My turntable is belt driven and I am wondering what clamping while the turntable is spinning will do to the motor and/or the belt. Is it my clamp? Can someone help an analog newbie?
matchstikman
timo's avatar
timo
610 posts
 
Agree, don't clamp while table is spinning. Not good for the motor and shortens belt life.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
You've got it right, Matchstikman. Clamp, power up, play, power down, unclamp.
hdm
1,062 posts
 
Yes, as above.
matchstikman OP
205 posts
 
Ok, one more question, what does turning the TT on and off so much due to the motor? If anything, wear and tear to the on/off switch has to do something, right?
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
I'd be more worried about damaging a LP than the switch. It should be made for the on/off duty. As far as the motor, it'll likely last longer than you.
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