2. analog
  3. 166132-11588

Is LP distortion the record or the cartridge?

Or maybe something else? On dynamic peaks, even at fairly low volume, the sound breaks up and produces distortion.
The first thought is that the cartridge is not properly tracking. Am using a Miyajima Shalabi, Tri-planar arm and Woodsong Garrard 301. Fairly new to serious analog and TTs, I hear the phrase “compliance” but not really sure what that is all about. I do know that the arm and the cartridge need to be compatible.
mglik

Showing 7 responses by mglik

mglik OP
913 posts
 
I really only noticed this distortion after inserting my new Atma-Sphere MP-1. Could its sensitivity be part of the cause?
But my records are old and were played on a not so good TT before...
I did get Tri to help me on the phone with set up. Assume it is good.
mglik OP
913 posts
 
The cartridge probably has about 2000 hours on it.
I am only getting that distortion on old and, probably, worn records.
mglik OP
913 posts
 
I regularly clean the stylus with Audio Technica stylus fluid and its brush. I never hear this distortion on new LPs.
mglik OP
913 posts
 
Some more than others. Old vocals and piano are frequently bad.I am waiting on an order for a Lyra Atlas SL.
Sure hope this will help. Any ideas on what changes to expect?
mglik OP
913 posts
 
I think the culprit is worn vinyl.
I do have a lot of used records. Guess I will flag the worst ones.
I think the greatly increased performance of my new Atma MP-1 just picks up and amplifies the wear issues.
The good news is that the 180 gram remasters do seem to all lack this overt distortion. I know they are not as good as good as good first pressings or Better Records but they are very enjoyable.
mglik OP
913 posts
 
I have Tetra 606 speakers. AMT with ATC dome midrange in an open baffle. and a 10” woofer in ported box. Very accurate. I don’t have another cartridge but am waiting for my Lyra Atlas SL.
My former phono stage was the John Curl one in my Audible Illusions preamp. My guess is that much of my current detail with the MP-1 is, in fact, picking up much more of what is actually in the groves.
mglik OP
913 posts
 
I actually only have about 1000 hours on my Shilabi. That is about 40 days of 4 hours a day. If the stylus is going bad, that is an awfully short time for a $3000 cartridge. @rauliruegas are you saying that a stylus is only good for about a year?.
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