Random Static Hits

It's static build-up from 2 likely sources: 1. Belt running on platter builds up static. 2. Lifting the record off the platter builds up static. You can see that as you play more records both factors are increasing.

Get a Zerostat gun. They work. Shoot the bare platter, the record before you put it on. If it's a severe case you might need to do it to the belt.

You can also spray the belt with anti-static spray, which you can find on the net.

Drier weather makes static build-up worse.

I'd suggest first buying a good humidistat to see just how dry the room is, near the system. Then you can get a better handle on how big a problem you have and how effective the various fixes are. For instance, I gave away my Zerostat after discovering that it was really not doing the job, even as a band-aid.

The only really effective solution in my case was an 8 gallon humidifier from Sears whose filters cost $18 and don't last more than a couple months, so it's hardly a cheap fix. But it works, and nothing else did. Believe me, I tried everything mentioned above and even draped copper anti-static tinsel over the system. At least that had a festive look :-)

I got the ultrasonic humidifier and it hasn't directly worked so my solution is to walk by the humidifier with the record and that works perfectly!

I almost hate to open this can of worms, but my place is quite dry and I have previously had issues with very loud static discharges. I found that applying Gruv Glide completely cured the static problems. I won't say it made the records sound better, because it didn't - but IMO it didn't make them sound worse either. In any case, it works for static and I'll leave it at that.

Well, walking by the humidifier works sometimes. Other times, not so much. I've ordered a Zerostat. Will report back. This really sucks. I might have to go the Gruv Glide route if all else fails.