Measure My Turntable Speed

Whilst strobes of various kinds are good for measuring average speed, the advantage of the test tone approach is that it allows one to monitor speed stability over the shorter term. The simplest method is to set up a frequency counter with the shortest sample interval which gives acceptable precision.

A better method is to monitor the test tone waveform on a scope using a separate, stable wave as the timebase. The test tone will then walk back and forth across the screen at a rate which equals the frequency difference between the test tone and the stable wave. If the stable wave is indeed stable and the test tone was recorded at constant frequency then the variation is due to the speed of the table wandering.

I just used a strobe and a neon light to adjust the speed on my table, and I can play along with the record while playing my piano. It's good enough for me

Why cant a Dual strobe paper do it???? It has little bars for 50 hz on one side and 60 hz on the other. I adjust my TT till they dont move. Then I play a CD and record of the same song to check. Always worked for me and its only a couple of dollars. I think your using an elephant gun for a butterfly. If i am wrong, can someone tell me in down to earth terms why you must spend 90 some dollars for a strobe?????? Mike

The method suggested by the Acoustic Sounds turntable tech using a 1kHz test tone and a DMM is a very accurate way to calibrate the speed of your turntable. If you have a test LP with a 1kHz tone track and a DMM, you have everything you need. Laying out the money for a strobe won't buy you greater accuracy, but you might find the strobe to be a bit more convenient to use.

Boy do I agree with Blueranger...