How to Repair a Record Player
- Prepare for replacement. You should turn off and unplug your record player in advance when you want to restore an old record player.
- Examine all connections of the record player. Pay attention to the power source by checking all plugs and cables for unraveling and damaged connections.
- Check all cables. In this time, you should turn on the multi-meter to inspect for continuity at all cables. ...
- Connect the multi-meter to the signal meter cable. To check for shorts and continuity from the plug to the cartridge links, you should connect the multi-meter to the ...
- Focus the needle on the tone-arm. To ensure the needle on the tone-arm works well, you should turn the turntable on and check it on a record at ...
- Inspect the cartridge for operation. A cartridge sometimes can fail. ...
- Change a new cartridge. Take a screwdriver to replace the cartridge and disconnect the old one. Then, you put a new screwdriver.
- Check the tone-arm cables. If you find out faulty, frayed or damaged tone-arm cables, then you could replace it on a regular basis.
- Inspect the drive system. High-end turntables have two main types which are direct-belt turntables and belt-drive ones. ...
- Verify the turntable platter for vertical movement or distortion. When you discover the wraps or vertical movement show a twist in the turntable platter, change a new platter.
How do you fix a broken record player?
How to Repair a Record Player Step 1: Prepare for replacement Step 2: Examine all connections of the record player Step 3: Check all cables Step 4: Connect the multi-meter to the signal meter cable Step 5: Focus the needle on the tone-arm Step 6: Inspect the cartridge for operation Step 7: Change a new cartridge Step 8: Check the tone-arm cables
How to restore an old record player?
You should turn off and unplug your record player in advance when you want to restore an old record player. Then, you check the record player directly for signs of damage. Look for dents, chips, and broken parts. Do not forget to compare these to a photograph or manual describing the product when it is new.
Can a record player or phonograph be repaired?
Or even a repair center that can repair a record player or phonograph. Most repair centers won’t even look at them, and if they do, they only end up making matters worse. Well, search no more! We have been performing record player and phonograph repairs since 1962, and continue to do so. You might even say it is one of our many specialties.
How do I clean the motor on my record player?
1 Make sure to unplug the record player before doing anything (this should go without saying, but I’m saying it anyway). ... 2 Remove the slip mat, i.e. the surface on which the record sits. ... 3 Remove the platter. ... 4 Turn the platter upside down on a flat surface so you can clean the motor, especially if it has collected dust. ...
How do I fix my old vinyl player?
Restore an Old Record PlayerStep 1: Take the Record Players Apart. ... Step 2: Making the New Hole for the Pick-up Arm. ... Step 3: Making the Brass Brim. ... Step 4: Glue the Sides With Veneer Wood. ... Step 5: Glue the Wood Veneer on the Small Parts. ... Step 6: Make the Case Flat. ... Step 7: Glue the Veneer on Top. ... Step 8: Varnish the Case.More items...
How do you refurbish an old record player?
0:4912:21DIY Record Cabinet Restoration | Before And After Furniture MakeoverYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipProcess you'll get a chance to kind of see all of them work with me throughout this video. But toMoreProcess you'll get a chance to kind of see all of them work with me throughout this video. But to get started I really needed to gauge how damaged the unit was so I just started by kind of tweaking.
How hard is it to repair a record player?
Fixing the turntable on your record player is not an overly difficult task, but it is a bit time consuming. It is always better if you don't need to make any repairs. That is why you should always take good care of your record player and if you ever ship it in the mail, make sure you pack it very well.
How do I get my record player to work?
For a manual turntable, you will need to press play and then press the cueing lever for the tone arm. The record should start spinning and the tone arm should rise. Align the tone arm with the record. Move the tone arm over to the side of the record.
How much is an old record player worth?
Vintage Record Players Other turntables from Thorens, a Swiss manufacturer of audio equipment known for record players it made in the 1950s and 1960s, are selling on eBay for upwards of $400.
How do you service a turntable?
Straight Simple Cleaning Two to three times a month, wipe down the external surfaces of the turntable with a microfiber cloth. If there's dirt that has built up, use a small bit of rubbing alcohol. Just be sure to dry it completely with a clean cloth afterwards.
How do you fix a turntable that won't turn on?
Follow these steps if the turntable platter doesn't spin:Make sure that the turntable is connected to the wall outlet.Move the lever on the motor drive gear inward to allow the platter to spin.Place the drive belt over the notched guide on the motor pulley. ... Re-sync the tone arm with the platter.
Why is my vinyl player not working?
These include debris and dirt stuck in the motor components and shaft. A jammed platter or a faulty on and off switch can create problems too. There is also the probability that the power to the motor is cut off or (ideally, though you'll feel like an idiot) the player simply isn't plugged in.
How much does it cost to service a record player?
A common repair required for record players is the basic tune-up and cleaning service. This repair service usually costs in the neighborhood of $60 to $75 for most turntable brands. The repair usually includes calibration of the tonearm counterbalance and detailed and delicate cleaning of all components.
How does a vintage record player work?
1:135:03How To Use A Record Player & Tricks You Can Do! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe safety lock first then pull the lever next to it so it goes up. This will be releasing theMoreThe safety lock first then pull the lever next to it so it goes up. This will be releasing the needle for you to move side-to-side with your hands.
What is the name of an old record player?
phonograph, also called record player, instrument for reproducing sounds by means of the vibration of a stylus, or needle, following a groove on a rotating disc. A phonograph disc, or record, stores a replica of sound waves as a series of undulations in a sinuous groove inscribed on its rotating surface by the stylus.
What do you do with a broken record player?
Best Buy's Electronics and Appliances Recycling Program. Best Buy will take back old record players (turntables) and many other home electronics for free; they also offer a buy back program for more desired electronics. They accept up to three items per day from each household.
What do you do with a broken record player?
Best Buy's Electronics and Appliances Recycling Program. Best Buy will take back old record players (turntables) and many other home electronics for free; they also offer a buy back program for more desired electronics. They accept up to three items per day from each household.
How do you test a turntable motor?
1:132:09Microwave motor How to remove and test How to repair change Replace ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd it's cycling clockwise and now it's going in the counterclockwise direction so this is a goodMoreAnd it's cycling clockwise and now it's going in the counterclockwise direction so this is a good motor. And turn it off and plug my wires. Turn my power back on again. And that's how I test my motor.
How do you repair a vinyl record?
How to Fix a Scratched RecordStep 1: Stabilize the Record. Lay the scratched vinyl record on a flat surface. ... Step 2: Apply Epoxy. Apply a thin line of epoxy or wood glue to the scratched area. ... Step 3: Spread Out Glue. ... Step 4: Remove the Glue. ... Step 5: Test the Sound.
How do I know if my turntable belt is bad?
0:094:53Turntable Belt Replacement - all you need to know! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can hear there is a noise. But it's not spinning. So this is a clear sign of a broken belt soMoreYou can hear there is a noise. But it's not spinning. So this is a clear sign of a broken belt so these belts over the time they are rubber they start to disintegrate.
How to restore an old record player?
Step 1: Prepare for replacement. You should turn off and unplug your record player in advance when you want to restore an old record player. Then, you check the record player directly for signs of damage. Look for dents, chips, and broken parts.
How to replace a cartridge in a record player?
Step 1: Prepare for replacement. Step 2: Examine all connections of the record player. Step 3: Check all cables. Step 4: Connect the multi-meter to the signal meter cable. Step 5: Focus the needle on the tone-arm. Step 6: Inspect the cartridge for operation. Step 7: Change a new cartridge. Step 8: Check the tone-arm cables.
How to check for continuity on a cartridge?
To check for shorts and continuity from the plug to the cartridge links, you should connect the multi-meter to the signal cables. Then, you need to scrutinize the output cables for secure physical and electrical connections. Next, you use a signal tracer to produce a test signal path through the output cables.
What is a high end turntable?
High-end turntables have two main types which are direct-belt turntables and belt-drive ones . With direct-drive turntables, an AC motor is turned on and rotates a drive wheel which also rotates the turntable. The rubber on the drive wheel enable to get worse over time or lose the grip and it must be replaced.
Do you need to connect a cable to a phonograph cartridge?
The cables ought to connect to the phonograph cartridge with the crimp or the connections. When replacing the threading with the tone-arm, you should draw attention to the wires because these are thin gauge and easily damage. Furthermore, cable connections could be dirty or corded.
What to do if your turntable is spinning too fast?
If you learn that your turntable is spinning too fast or too slow, or not spinning at all, then you need to fix the belt. Sometimes, you only need to put the existing belt back in its correct position, but other times, you will need to get a new one altogether. You want to make sure you get the right one.
What is a record player belt?
A record player’s belt connects the motor to the turntable and keeps it spinning at a constant pace. Though they rarely snap, it’s not uncommon for the belt to simply slip out of place. Luckily, replacing it is easy. We will teach you how to fix a record player turntable in a few easy steps, using with minimal tools and effort.
How to replace a belt on a platter?
Place the new belt over the center hub of the platter 1 Make sure the new belt is straightened out and stretched, before placing it over the center hub of the platter. It should fit snugly onto the circle. If it doesn’t, it is the wrong size. 2 Put the replacement belt as close to the center as possible for the best accuracy. 3 If you see a ribbon on the belt, make sure to line it up with one of the access holes in the platter, to make it easier to pull the belt onto the motor.
Can you fix a turntable on a record player?
Fixing the turntable on your record player is not an overly difficult task, but it is a bit time consuming. It is always better if you don’t need to make any repairs. That is why you should always take good care of your record player and if you ever ship it in the mail, make sure you pack it very well.
My record player has been at another repair center and they said it can't be fixed. Is this true?
Most of the time record player repairs can be done with little or no problems at all, however, extreme circumstances can lead to an un-repairable unit. Keep in mind, turntable parts are getting harder to come by, and will only get harder as time goes by. But for now, most every turntable and phonograph can be serviced!
How much will it cost to repair my record player?
While every record player or phonograph has the same basic principle in operation, each model and brand is very different and unique. For example: Some units have an external amplifier while others do not. Some have only 1 drive idler (tire) and others can have 4 or more. Therefore, one price for servicing is not possible or fair.
What models do you service?
Acoustic Research, ADC, Admiral, Airline, AKAI, Arvin, Audio Industries, Audio King, Bell Sound, B.I.C., Birch, Blaupunkt, Bogen, BSR, Brother, Bulova, Capehart, Columbia, Craig, Curtis Mathes, Decca, Diamond, Dual, Dumont, DYN, Dynamic, and so on…all the way up to Zenith. If they made it, we can repair it.
How should I ship it to you?
Very carefully! Take your time when getting ready to box up your unit. Note any moving object, and secure it if possible. Be especially sure to secure the tone arm, this should not move or bounce during shipment. Secure the turntable platter so it will not spin around.
How to change capacitors?
To change the capacitors, desolder or cut the leads of the old capacitor and resolder the new capacitor in place, you might need to use jumper wires because newer capacitors are usually smaller than the old ones. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
How to replace a selenium rectifier with a diode?
To replace the selenium rectifier with a diode, first, you need to measure the amperage the circuit is drawing. You can then use this with the fact that a silicon rectifier has a drop of 10 volts more than a diode to figure out the resistor value to add in series with the diode.
The Cartridge: What It Is and How To Replace It
This little device is one of the most crucial parts of your record player, and if something goes wrong with it, it’ll leave you with inferior sound or no sound at all.
Replacing a Worn-Out Belt
There are two main types of mechanisms that allow turntables to spin – belt-drive and direct-drive. A belt-drive turntable relies on (as the name suggests) a small belt wrapped around the plate that holds a record and is attached to a motor.
Why Is My Turntable So Quiet?
If your turntable isn’t producing any sound at all while attached to a pair of passive speakers, it’s possible that there is something wrong with your preamp.
When to Visit a Pro
There are several circumstances when you might want to bring a busted turntable in to be fixed by an audio professional. These are situations when you’re dealing with severe damage, missing parts, or other issues that are too big for you to handle on your own.
Why is it important to maintain a record player?
Occasional maintenance, even when your player is still working properly, can also be hugely beneficial. It lengthens the lifespan of your player and helps prevent future problems.
Why do turntables have dust covers?
Even though most turntable players come with dust covers and seals to prevent foreign particles from getting inside the device , they still manage to collect dust and grime over time. You don’t want to let this build up, as it will affect the unit’s performance.
What to do if your belt breaks?
If it breaks, you need to get a new one and replace it. Again, your first stop should be the instructions manual, because it usually provides step-by-step instructions on how to replace the belt. If you do not have the manual, check online. I also wrote a detailed post on how to replace a broken belt.
Can you play vinyl records with a needle?
Once you have installed the new needle, don’t play your most precious record. Test it with a record you don’t care much about, just in case. You want to make sure your new needle is correctly installed before letting it touch your valuable vinyl albums and potentially scratching them.
Do record players stop working?
Sometimes record players stop working. Sometimes they work, but not as well as before. Sure, you can take it to a professional and get it fixed, but a lot of times that’s not necessary. Many times, the problem is fairly simple and something you could take care of on your own. The ability to do some basic troubleshooting on your record player will ...
