skipping problem - Marantz TT-15S1


I just got my new Marantz hooked up. It's sounds amazing, but it skips when it nears the middle of every record. I have tried playing with the counterbalance on the tonearm, but it's had no effect on the problem. Would adjusting the tonearm height help?

Any other suggestions?

Thanks, in advance, for the help.
storguso
Trip-
That is actually good to hear. Makes me think it isn't just me. I really love the sound of this table and would like to get it to work. I'm going to give Marantz a call.

TFK-
No, there is nothing that it actually contacting the arm, and i used one of those laser-level things to make sure it is level. It does seem like the arm is being pulled back to the rest position, though.
Storguso
You are correct the Marantz sound good when it's right.
My problems started after just 10hrs of playing. On top of that Music Direct set it up for me and they are very very good at setting up tables. I fiddle w/ it for hours and gave up. Good luck.
03-01-07: Storguso
Trust me, i have adjusted the anti-skate as far as it will go. It helped, but didn't solve the problem.
Storguso
If you are positive the arm lift is free of the arm in the down position, and the arm moves freely on the arm pivot then it sure sounds like the problem is too much anti skate applied.
Read this review article on the TT.
Here is a paragraph from the article about the anti-skate mechanism.

"The anti skate is done by a magnet system which in my first sample was installed backwards, reversing the direction of the anti skate torque. The screw-in stationary magnet should attract the front magnet on the arm and repel the back one. Try this with the stationary magnet not yet installed to be sure things are right."
Yeah, i tried it with the screw completely out, and it didn't solve the problem.

I talked to Marantz today (after being on hold for over an hour) and the dude on the phone said it was most likely a defective cartridge or tonearm, but they couldn't deal with me directly. I need to call the dealer and switch them out.