Yes, remove it from its hinges so you can then remove it completely when you actually play LPs. You can put it back in place when the TT is not in use. I have never met a dust cover that did not detract from sonics if lowered during LP play. Most audiophiles agree; some do not.
7 responses Add your response
@lewm knows of what he speaks. Remove it then replace it when done. |
Correct, I am firmly in the "do not" column. Dust covers are essential for keeping dust away from records and sensitive bearings. Having to remove a dust cover for every play is a PITA. Most dustcovers have friction stop hinges like my Sota. apparently yours does not. There are very nice folding jewelry box props usually made out of brass. Using one may require drilling a few small hole. Give me a little time and I will find an example. A good dust cover IMPROVES the sound by attenuating airborne vibration (sound) from getting to the cartridge. A prime example of this is feedback at high volumes. The delay in the loop creates an echo which some people find pleasing. It gives a false sense of space. Ideally, a dust cover should not be connected directly to the chassis carrying the platter's bearing and the tonearm which should be suspended within a plinth with the dust cover mounted to the plinth. Examples are the Thorens TD 1600 and the suspended Sotas. This prevents any dust cover resonance from getting to the cartridge. A well designed dust cover should not resonate. |
It seems like a large plastic dustcover would serve as an amplifier of acoustic feedback into the whole turntable. And that would have a more deleterious effect than any possible shielding of sound with a cover down. Of course, not all tables and hinged covers are the same. Try it with and without the cover at low and high volume and report back. |