Measuring Turntable Platter Speed


I have an older Rega P2 that seems to warble (for lack of a better word) when playing. It's not that it's fast or slow, but I can hear slight, quick, pitch changes when playing a record. I put a new belt on, but no change.

Is there a method or relatively inexpensive instrument that I could use to monitor small fluctuations in platter speed?

Thanks in advance - Jim S.

stilljim

@stilljim Sorry, I think I just read the title of the thread and didn't read the entirety of your post.  I don't think the device I mentioned will help with that.  I'm not familiar with that table, but you say it's "older".  Ever changed the belt?

The P2's performance could possibly be significantly improved by replacing the plastic subplatter. But it's $220. Perhaps not worth it. 

https://groovetracer.com/subplatter_groovetracer.htm

That was my experience with a P5. The Asylum forum may have additional insight.

You might find info of a less expensive alternative.

 

 

IF you had the worst case of WOW (slow then fast then slow) the RPM might be affected. But it would have to be way off. No record today would cause it unless the the hole is punched off center. I haven't seen any or had any for a LONG time, unless it's on UTube. 

Motor, Spindle, Spindle Well, pullies and belt. There nothing else to cause it unless you actually have an electrical contact problem in the motor or powersupply etc.

I've seen it in fractile motors for rem drives TT.. Washing machine motors.

Russco/Sparta/QRK and the ity bitty Garrards.. :-)

Regards

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I know exactly how the RR works, Mijo. If the phenomenon that the OP is sensing lasts for less than one full rotation of the platter, I doubt he’d hear it, and the other devices mentioned would be even less likely to detect it.

 

Anyway, the RR is too expensive for this investigation.  No harm in trying the cheaper alternatives, but the ears tell the story here.