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Surface Noise - another question

On a scale of 1 to 10, my surface noise is about a '1' (1 is low, 10 is high). I have a TNT Jr. w/super platter and upgraded flywheel motor (VPI belts), JMW 10.0 arm, a Benz Glider (High output-not the new 'S' - about 8 years old but probably only 200 hrs on it), Cardas Phono cables, and an innersound phono stage (not set to high gain, 47k ohms, 100 micro farad capacatance setting). I use the Living Voice Carbon record mat and BDR record clamp. I am referring to basically new records, cleaned w/VPI 16.5 with Walker Audio 3 step (or Needle Dr fluid), and Milty Zero Stat. Stylus is always cleaned with either magic eraser or Needle Dr. or the Zero Dust and cartridge is recently degaussed. Rig is as perfectly leveled as possible, on a Billy Bags Pro Stand. VTF set to high side of mfg recommendation - 2.2 grams; speed dead on (VPI SDS, KAB Strobe), VTA is dialed in as all is in focus and azimuth must be pretty close to dead on as my soundstage is spot on. Here is my question - how can I get the surface noise down? (I have heard rigs with NO surface noise). Assuming records are in as perfect condition as you can get, do you think it is the cartridge that is giving me the little surface noise; phono stage? Other? (New TT?)

Appeciate the input of the vinyl gurus - I'm sure you have the answer.
128x128cerrot
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
If the issue is surface noise, an upgrade will accomplish nothing except decrease your funds.

If the issue is with the gear not performing well and creating noise, then fix it but be sure to isolate where the noise is coming from beforehand otherwise your efforts may be in vain.

Do not believe anybody who tells you their vinyl is as quiet as CDs. Their vinyl may be exceptionally quiet (for vinyl) but will never match CD in this regard. Anybody who says it can or does is either deluded and/or has hearing issues.
viiu
34 posts
 
Have found that when my vinyl rig is dialed in including VTA & VTF, that the surface noise is less than when not optimized.
roole
13 posts
 
There are some bad pressings too. Even greatest rig can't play such vinyl without additional noise.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
"Have found that when my vinyl rig is dialed in including VTA & VTF, that the surface noise is less than when not optimized."

No doubt a properly tracking stylus will produce less noise.

In this case, the noise may occur when the stylus is operating in the groove, but in this case the issue is again the setup of the gear producing more noise while tracking the groove, not surface noise inherent in the record.
cerrot's avatar
cerrot OP
1,700 posts
 
I have heard two vinyl rigs which were absolutely dead quiet. Definitely as quiet as cd. Both were the dps tables. Different tonearms, cartridge and phono stage but absolutely no surface noise. It is attainable.
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