Clamp, weight, or nothing?


I have a Teres table (solid acrylic platter). Tonight is probably the first time in 10 years I've tried it without the clamp. 

What do you use? Probably need to describe your platter, too. 
128x128nrenter

Dear NRenter,

In my case always unclamped (in fact I always use an undamped arrangement which is not recommended for clamping).

It really depends whether the listener is of damped or undamped persuasion. Not that I’m suggesting that a damped approach cannot work well also. I know one or two that do.

The mat in question is the “Gold Spot” hybrid Ringmat (hybrid because it features a 1mm latex underlay – which was always the basis for the well known Ringmat adjustable VTA/support system). The GS was mainly purchased for its greater manufacturing integrity than the more basic 330 Ringmat rather than for the “Gold Spot” itself ;^)

The platter is similar to yours, several inches thick vinyl-like impedance “plastic composite” platter (formula a trade secret…) ;^)

Cheers,

nrenter,

For me it depends on the LP.  I now have three turntables. Dual 1229 with a Grace 747, a Garrard with a SME 3009, and an EMT 927 and an 12" Ortofon arm. All are idler drive tables with heavy aluminum platters.

 When I place my Turntable Toys 1lb clamp on the LP and it flattens to the platter then I use one. When I place it on the LP and I notice no movement at all, I don't use it. 
I find that with thinner vinyl it really helps to ensure that the record is dead flat against the platter. I also notice that the bass tightens up a bit and the soundstage is more focused.  On the heavier grades of vinyl that are flat, I really don't notice any improvement. 

Several audio buddies use them all the time and several don't use them at all. For me it's a case by case basis.

Let it your ears decide.  They're always right. 

Norman

We often use the ''opposite'' in order to explain something.

Well does the ''outer platter ring'' not explain the use of ''clamp''?