TO BE OR NOT TO BE the user of a record clamp


I'm going to open a new can of worms that will make you sure, I just can't hear.  Please give me good reasons to use a record clamp.  I have seen them advertised for thousands of dollars.  The best reason I've heard so far is that a certain type will drain any electo-static energy from your LP.
My records are not warped, except for an occasional waver on some when looking at record level at the outer most portion of the it, and those are far and few between.  Even then, the clamp has no affect,on flattening out the record.  I can see where they may be very useful, when playing a warped LP, but other than that, I see no reason for it's use.  I can see where it makes a good solid connection to the platter.  I don't have any slip, when the record is playing.  Maybe I have it, but just can't see it.  Are they like seat belts on a car?  Better to use them than not?  Are they like a properly mounted speaker.  It needs to be very solid?  I can understand that.  The record more or less becomes part of the platter.  They become as one.  Be sure to read this last part, because as I'm writing this, I can see where it can actually makes the platter solidly attached to the record.  I think I just answered my own question.  But thousands of dollars for a clamp?  I have talked to several people, trying to explain how tweeks, not matter how small, add them all together an wow.
handymann
I have been using the Audio Technica Record Weight that I bought new ($20) in 1978. Presently on my Pioneer PLX1000.  Before that on my Ariston RD11S. I like the way it couples the record to the platter. I use it as a matter of habit - like buckling up a seatbelt! Can't hurt! But spending thousands (Shun Moon Brierwood - $3000!) would certainly be foolish! Another clever ploy to cheat the gullible!
Roberjerman: Do u know of a clamp that will fit my PL-71? It only has a very short spindle with no threads. It would have to be something that " latches" onto the short spindle.  The one you sent me a link to-will that actually "latch" onto my spindle?
You must understand-my wife told me it was either her or my Hi-Fi.  I'm sure going to miss her.
I own a VPI Classic 3 Sig SE and a Townshend Rock 7. Two completely different designs. I use two platter mats, one is a Funk firm 5mm the other is a 1 mm flexible vinyl mat. I use these two together on each tt. I do not use a weight or a clamp. I own a Stillpoint LP1, two VPI SS center weights, two Townshend clamps, BDR clamp. and so on.

Sounds better without!