Rubber Washer VPI Scout

I tried it without the washer and I did not like the sound. I place the level where the stylus meets the groove. I wonder if other turntables have the same issue.

The records sound better to me with the rubber washer but they are not flat or level especially towards the inner grooves. The heavier clamp does make a tremendous difference in tracking and loweringthe noise floor. I am suprised more people do not not mention this. It is a huge difference to my ears. I just wish the rubber washer was thinner so the record would be level. Maybe there is a reason it is not level?

So do I want to level the table or the platter. Right now, the table plinth is level.

The plinth and the platter are not the same level.

Records do not sound as good with the washer off.