record weight .... correct weight?

Exhibitors at shows may be more concerned about someone dropping a record weight on the turntable than trying to get the absolute best performance out of a compromised room setting. Electronics shows are not where published reviews are conducted.

An expensive cartridge could easily get damaged or the beautiful finish on a plinth or tonearm could end up with a dent or scratch. The nuanced sonic gains of a weight or clamp may not be worth the risk. Unless a turntable designer/ manufacturer (or similarly knowledgable vinylphile) speaks up, we won't know for sure.

Just sayin'...

You do realise you've just panicked half of the weight-wielding Audiophiles out there :)

You've got them sweating over the ongoing health of their Goldfingers and A95s...especially if the Wife has just used moisturising lotion.. ;^) :)

Moonglum,

Don't you put the weight on before you drop the needle?

Hi Elinor,
For those who "allow" their wives to handle their gear (turntables!), I was suggesting it could be tricky for her if she's just greased herself up :)

No, actually I'm one of the "undamped Brigade" who allows the record to vibrate freely and have never used weights personally (although I've heard weights & clamps in action on plenty of other turntables). Sometimes they work and sometimes they don't.

My GoldSpot Ringmat probably wouldn't handle the strain if I dumped a couple of pounds of ballast on it. ;^D
I'm told the platter bearing would handle at least 4 pounds of extra pressure long term but definitely not recommended to add more.

I second Elinor's recommendation the Oyaide weight. I've settled on the lighter one on my Lenco after trying out quite a few well-regarded clamps and weights. It is adjustable in increments of 200g; each change brings an audible difference. Made of brass, stainless steel and carbon fiber. Really nice, versatile weight.