Clearaudio Performance DC issue


I have a Clearaudio  PerformanceDC table, Tracer tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza bronze cartridge with a chronic issue. I know nothing about setting up turntables, but this one has been set up three different times by dealers who do. At first it sounds great. After a few hours of play I notice it begins to distort and then-for no apparent reason-the tonearm will just skate along the record. This has happened three different times after being set up by folks who I think know what they are doing. The dealer is not local and at this point I'm not getting much help on that front. Out of warranty. 

Before I ditch this thing, just wondering if anyone has had a similar experience or any ideas. Its frustrating, because when it works, it sounds great.

Thanks.

kerrybh

I’ve had the same TT for many years and have never had any issues like you describe. I know this doesn’t help you but at least you know it’s not a common occurrence, good luck with finding a solution.

No personal experience. It could be an issue with the magnetic anti-skate. Is there an adjustment?

Only time I have read about something like this happening is with a verify or clarify magnetic tone arm.
If you are willing to try you could buy a riverstone tracking force gauge just to see what the tracking force is.
that could give you a better idea what is going on.

Thanks for your response. Very frustrating. Thought it was fixed three different times. I may just trade it into a clear Audio dealer, disclose exactly what is going on, and try something else.

That is too bad, I don't think I would ever get rid of my DC, but mine has the magnify arm.

If you're not interested in learning about your TT, maybe vinyl isn't your best investment in audio?

@kerrybh Are you in the U.S.? If so, contact Musical Surroundings, the distributor for Clearaudio. They usually provide great support.

I am. That’s good advice. I will give that a try.
Thank you. I think this is a great turntable for the money and this is a very odd problem.