2. analog
  3. 177351-1662

How best to eliminate LP warps

I own about 2500 LPs, and I like to think they're flat.  Furthermore, I espoused the view that warped LPs ought to be discarded.  But lately I have found 2 or 3 of my LPs that do have warps but sound too good and are too precious for the music recorded on them to throw away.  So I am in the market for ideas on how to remove warps.  I am aware that there was a device on the market that looked like a large waffle maker, to be used for warp removal.  I think Furutech made it, but I never see it advertised these days.  I am also aware of the DIY method of placing an LP between two glass plates and heating the ensemble.  The question there would be how hot and for how long?  Any suggestions are welcome, especially opinions on the efficacy of the Furutech.  Thanks.  Please no comments on vacuum hold down; I think it's a great idea but none of my five turntables has that feature.

lewm
big_greg
6,664 posts
 

@drbond thanks for the info on Mockingbird.  I saw an Orb listed here on Audigon recently, but it was almost the price of a new one, so I passed.  It did get snatched up pretty quickly.

Agree with those that mentioned using an outer ring.  If your table will accommodate one, that's a great way to go.  I had one with my VPI Classic 2 and it worked great.  

I don't think it would be a good idea to put one on my Sota Sapphire with it's suspended chassis, which is why being able to flatten my records is appealing.  I have the Sota clamp which works well, but doesn't do much for warps where the outer edge is bent upwards.

melm
1,082 posts
 

I’ll add my voice to those who recommend an outer ring. When I got one I sold my vinylflat right away.

It is far easier to use than any reflex clamp, and does the job better.

Moreover, by adding weight to the edge of your platter it will add flywheel effect and increase SQ for that reason alone. I use one with all records, warped or not.

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 

If a research is done into using a Peripheral Ring, it soon becomes apparent that additional to the intended benefits of the increased inertia, the impact of the weight on the LP, and the reduction of the warped form around the rim, has shown, if the reports are accurate that new levels of quietness are achievable during the playback when the Peripheral Ring is present. 

Not all TT's can utilise a common design of a Peripheral Ring, so it is always best to check if the TT is compatible with the design being selected. One such design change could be the need for a shallower depth weight or a chamfered edge to a weight.

 

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@dekay , nice thinking. The trick is there can not be any temperature differential across the record or you will make warps. Will a heating blanket and glass panes work? Sounds like a nice experiment to me!  

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

I just had a look at the Furutech unit. It is the same unit as the Orb with a different dress on!  The Orb is not sold here any more by license agreement. Lets see...$1150...$3270... nice racket. I'll follow @lewm to eBay.

More to discover