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correct zerostat technique

I have the Zerostat 3 and was always surprised at the lack of instruction supplied with it. I constantly wonder how to most effectively use it. In the past, a search of the archives turned up a tiangle technique. Basically, squeeze and release at the three points of an imaginary equilateral triangle ~1 foot over the record surface followed by one squeeze(no release) over the center. In max AC season here in Iowa this doesn't seem to be real effective and sometimes I wonder if I'm actually adding charge to the vinyl. Does anyone have a different technique to recommend? Would I have more luck with the Talisman or Furutech destat?(Both of which seem pricey)
sonofjim
dgad
782 posts
 
I was once told to hold the record in one hand, and the gun in the other while you are grounded with your feet on the floor (not carpet). Supposedly the static goes through your body to the ground. I never tried it as I am lazy and do it slowly as others mentioned.
tgrisham
1,291 posts
 
Guiness, nice information! Thanks! I remember using the Zerostat when it first introduced and still use it. I still have the little "thingy" that sparkles when it is still working. I discharge on three points of the record and then once while the record is spinning. The wet method of cleaning helps, but I still have to use the Zerostat. Simply spinning the record creates static.
roblanger
117 posts
 
This may be a very obvious suggestion, but I've found that running a humidifier in the room helps reduce the static charge. I also use a VPI cleaning machine and a Zerostat, but those dry winter months really add to the static problem.
smoffatt
205 posts
 
The most common static problem i have is when i remove the record from the platter to play the other side. There is so much static that i have to "pry it" off the platter and you can hear major static crackling and popping. I do the same as Dgad, hold the record in one hand and use the Zerostat SLOWLY squeezing & releasing the trigger to remove the static charge.

In my case, the problem maybe with a faulty ground between my TT and the Phono Preamp hence, creating this static charge when the record is removed.

However, there are other records that i play with no static at all whne i remove them from the platter.
undertow
1,033 posts
 
Smoffatt
Buy a different mat... Especially if yours is Felt
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