Full Manual Turntable-What to do

folkfreak:,
 
Your observation is noted. I used a ET arm for years. This arm is more sensitive to record flatness.

During this time, I experimented with different thickness, center washers.

I had Herbies make a .08mm washer for me during this time.

It worked very well! One thing that is not very much noted.. the record label thickness. This is one other aspect that is of notable consideration when thinking about these issues.

Record flatness. This (IS) the main issue when approaching this topic.

If your dealing with a "flat lp", and using a .08mm washer on a platter that has a machined relief for the lp label thickness, (shew!) ..a center (weight) is appropriate. In this scenario, a clamp is not the best option.

If anyone is in any serious way, into vinyl ... they should own a "Vinyl Flat", at the very least!

I've really never understood from a vinyl lover's perspective and from a logical standpoint why those that choose to leave the motor on between lp changes, do so.

If the main argument is saving the motor /switch vs. saving your vinyl?.. I'll always go for saving my vinyl.

If the main argument is being "cool", I'd rather save my vinyl.

If the argument is one less "step" in the playback of vinyl, I'd recommend those that adopt that option to quickly get out of vinyl reproduction.

To the Op's reasoning, Is the TT motor more important that the vinyl? I think you came to the appropriate conclusion.

There is a "right or wrong" when it comes down to a possibility of damaging the vinyl.

Why take the chance? A couple of minutes?

Regarding the use or non-use of a record clamp....

It all comes down to having "flat" lps.

If one has flat lps, the record clamp is not necessary, nor is it of any sonic value, IMO.

If you feel the need for the motor to fully "speed stabilize" , then by all means, take this route... any user imposed faults to your prized vinyl, well, that's on you.

(By the way, I concur that it does take a while for the speed to fully stabilize.)
This isn't enough of a concern for me in order to make any adjustment in my normal routine that takes into consideration, ("Vinyl First").

I can always visualize any removal of a vinyl record from a spinning platter...if not done (precisely) will always be a negative. I can think of no other situation in which this action can be a positive. Therefore, regarding preserving your vinyl, how can anyone confidently say, this would be of no negative consequence for a vinyl record? To do so, would go against any sort of logical reasoning!

I think folkfreak's situation may be not "the norm" of most of us here.

I made the comment above, assuming that all know I use a "weight", not a clamp.