It doesn't matter what cartridge you use because every different stylus profile contacts a different part of the groove so the wear pattern left by one stylus may obviate what is contacted by another and even then, the vinyl must encounter some serious abuse to become "worn out". In other words, records can last for decades or maybe forever and the surfaces remain quiet with like new fidelity. Anyone who routinely shops used records looking for those out-of-print classic titles to add to their collections can attest to this.
How long do records last?
From the YouTuber:
"Lots of people talk and worry about vinyl records wearing out, but finally here is a controlled, long-term experiment to test how much audible wear actually happens to records played in real-world conditions on a variety of turntables. I highly suggest a quiet listening environment and good pair of speakers or headphones to observe the results."
Showing 5 responses by faustuss
@noromance love your room and all your stuff! You're an old salt, value you're vigilance. |
@atmasphere "I think the conclusion of the video is spot on- that dust is really the big wear issue." how do explain all those turntables we've used that don't have covers that you can close during playback? Many are extreme high-end and the users aren't going out of their minds worrying about record wear and increased noise! |
"A decent air cleaning machine is a worthwhile addition to any room. It’s been covered (pun) in other threads and the consensus seems to be that turntables sound better with the lid (if fitted) removed when playing." @noromance I'm sure that's a viable option though I've never noticed it mentioned before but there are other options that only involve a little sweat equity like dusting vacuuming and mopping which we do quite often around here. As a rule, I do observe habitual record hygiene practices as @inna mentioned though I don't do so begrudgingly. I have an Ersa Major which is the best CFB I've ever encountered other than the original EDA MK6 before Music Hall got their hands on it. I also discovered the invaluable silicon roller (In the Groove) that I should have been using decades ago. I have a Spin Clean in the closet that I put into play following my raids at the local used record stores and it's very good at assuring really good playback satisfaction from what I find in those places. |