2. analog
  3. 1335275711

Surface noise

I seem to have noticeable "noise" in between tracks on vinyl, especially at louder volumes. Should I try adjusting VTF? The system is a Luxman PD-441 turntable, Denon DA-307 arm, Grado Gold cartridge. Everything is pretty well isolated from vibration on a sand filled stand which is on floor spikes and the Luxman is sitting on vibrapods. VTF is probably near 2 grams right now. Thanks for advice.
bdunne
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I see that recommended VTF is 1.5 grams, so perhaps you should try lowering the VTF. Also check your alignment and azimuth.
I'm assuming that this is not your first time setting up a turntable, so I'll assume that the records are clean and have played w/o noise in another setup to rule out these as the source of your noise.
miner42
709 posts
 
I don't feel that 1.5gms is too light. Deep down your grooves may be just dirty OR your LPs are worn. Are you using a RCM (record cleaning machine w/a vacuum)?
bdunne OP
57 posts
 
Yes, I clean with Record Doctor vacuum and fluid every time. Noise is there even on brand new 180 gram vinyl. I just checked set up with Hi Fi News set up record and everything seems fine except that track which they explain is pretty severe. On that track I do hear the warble. I'll adjust VTF and see what happens. Thanks for now.
miner42
709 posts
 
What do you use to align your Grado cartridge?
bdunne OP
57 posts
 
I used that device that was included in the Hi-Fi news set up record. That was to double check what I had originally used, which was some download that I printed out several years ago. Wonder if my stylus is wearing down. Would that make for more noise in between tracks? I used the Shure gauge for the VTF.
More to discover