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Technics 1200G - clamp record weight or no record weight?

It seems as though 95% of the time the 1200G sounds better without a clamp or weight.  I use a Boston audio mat and it seems when I add a clamp or weight, it may sound pleasing in some ways for some records but most of the time records seem to sound better without anything...  maybe its just the mat does not like the clamp.  not sure...  How are your experiences?  So far I have used the Project puck, Stillpoints LPI, Orsonic 200 gram clamp.  The Stillpoints may sound the best in some circumstances but it seems that the lighter Orsonic works pretty good. 
tzh21y

Showing 3 responses by sleepwalker65

sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
Technics doesn’t have an upper thrust bearing, so don’t use a clamp or you will damage the spindle. 
sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
Chalkser there is a big difference between a clamp and a weight. The clamp pulls the spindle upwards, causing it to not sit properly in its main bearing race, and pulling it off of its only thrust bearing, which is at the bottom of the spindle. This destabilizes the spindle and accelerates wear. For this reason, clamps are not recommended for Technics turntables. 

The weight simply exerts downward force, while the spindle is sitting in the correct position in its bearings, there is added load on the thrust bearing, so make sure you regularly clean and lubricate it to maximize lifespan. 
sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
@chakster I see what you mean. The clamp you are using would reduce slipping of the record by coupling it laterally to the spindle.  Neat idea. 
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