How to Fix a Skipping Record – Common Causes & Easy Solutions
If your vinyl record skips, it disrupts your listening and kills the mood. Skipping happens when the needle jumps out of the groove, causing the music to stutter or repeat. Fixing a skipping record is usually straightforward once you understand the common causes and how to fix them. This guide will walk you through the main reasons your record skips and easy solutions to get your vinyl spinning smoothly again.
Common Causes of a Skipping Record
1. Dirty or Dusty Record Surface
Dust and dirt are the most frequent causes of skipping. Even tiny particles can block the stylus from tracking the grooves properly. This makes the needle jump or loop over the same section repeatedly. Records attract dust easily, especially if they aren’t stored in protective sleeves or cleaned regularly. Dust also creates static electricity, which can pull the needle off track.
2. Worn or Dirty Stylus (Needle)
The stylus is the tiny needle that rides in the grooves of your record. If it’s dirty or worn down, it won’t track the grooves accurately. This can cause skipping, distortion, or even damage your records. Styluses wear out over time and need regular cleaning or replacement to keep your sound crisp and smooth. Using a damaged stylus can permanently harm your vinyl, so it’s worth checking it often.
3. Improper Turntable Setup
Your turntable’s setup plays a big role in how well the stylus tracks the record. If the turntable isn’t level, the tonearm balance is off, or the tracking force is incorrect, the stylus can skate across the grooves instead of following them. This causes skipping and uneven wear on your records. Even small misalignments add up over time, so it’s good to check your setup regularly.
4. Warped or Damaged Records
Records can warp from heat exposure or poor storage conditions. Warped vinyl doesn’t sit flat on the platter, causing the stylus to jump over bumps or dips. Deep scratches or other physical damage also create obstacles that cause skipping. Some older records may have manufacturing defects that cause skipping as well.
5. Incorrect Tracking Force or Anti-Skate Settings
Tracking force is the downward pressure the stylus applies to the record. Too much force can cause the stylus to dig into the grooves, while too little force lets it bounce around. Anti-skate settings counteract the natural pull of the tonearm toward the center, keeping the stylus centered in the groove. If these settings are off, skipping is likely. Many turntables have adjustable controls for these settings, so consult your manual to fine-tune them.
6. Environmental Vibrations and External Factors
External vibrations from speakers, foot traffic, or nearby appliances can cause the stylus to jump. Turntables are sensitive devices and need a stable, vibration-free surface. Placing your turntable on a sturdy, isolated stand helps reduce skipping caused by environmental factors.
Easy Solutions to Fix a Skipping Record
Clean Your Records Regularly
Start by brushing your records with a carbon fiber brush before and after each play. This removes surface dust and static that cause skipping. For deeper cleaning, use a wet cleaning system like the Spin-Clean or a vacuum record cleaner. These remove dirt and grime stuck deep in the grooves, which a dry brush can’t reach. Regular cleaning not only prevents skipping but also extends the life of your records.
- Effortless & Quite Dual-Sided Deep Cleaning: Clean both sides of your vinyl records simultaneously with ease. The vinyl …
- Easy-to-Clean Basin with Stability-Enhanced Feet: The redesigned vinyl cleaning basin is simple to clean and the new fee…
- Proprietary Alcohol-Free Cleaning Solution: Deluxe vinly record cleaning kit includes (2) bottles of specially formulate…
Clean or Replace the Stylus
Keep your stylus clean with a special stylus brush or cleaning gel. Gently brush from back to front to avoid damage. If your stylus is worn or damaged, replace it with one that matches your cartridge model. A fresh stylus tracks grooves more accurately and reduces skipping. Some stylus cleaners use ultrasonic waves to remove stubborn debris, which is worth considering if you want the best sound quality.
- EASY, EFFICIENT, EFFECTIVE: For our record needle cleaner just lower the lifted vinyl stylus cleaner lightly against the…
- HEAR THE DIFFERENCE: The anti-zerodust stylus cleaning action will enhance the audio quality of your turntable by improv…
- SAFE AND SPECIALLY FORMULATED: Our record player needle cleaner gel is specially formulated to not damage your equipment…
Check and Adjust Turntable Setup
- Level the Turntable: Use a spirit level to make sure your turntable sits perfectly flat. An uneven surface causes the tonearm to mistrack.
- Balance the Tonearm: Turn off and unplug your turntable. Adjust the counterweight on the tonearm until it floats parallel to the record surface. Then set the tracking force according to your cartridge’s specifications.
- Set Anti-Skate: Adjust the anti-skate control to match the tracking force. This keeps the stylus centered in the groove and reduces skipping.
- Align the Cartridge: Use a protractor tool to align the cartridge correctly. Misalignment can cause distortion and skipping, especially near the inner grooves.
Flatten Warped Records
If your record is warped, you can try a record flattener like the Audio Fidelity Improvements Flat.Duo. This device applies gentle heat and pressure to flatten vinyl without damaging it. The process usually takes about two hours but can bring warped records back to playable condition. For minor warps, placing the record between two flat glass sheets under weight for a few days can help, but it’s less reliable.
Handle and Store Records Properly
Always hold records by the edges to avoid fingerprints and oils on the playing surface. Store them vertically in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use high-quality inner and outer sleeves to protect against dust and scratches. Proper storage prevents warping and damage that cause skipping. Avoid stacking records horizontally, as this can cause warping over time.
Additional Tips for Reducing Skipping
- Avoid touching the record’s surface with your fingers.
- Keep pets and children away from your vinyl setup.
- Use a high-quality turntable mat to reduce vibrations.
- Check your cartridge alignment with a protractor tool for better tracking.
- Replace old or damaged record sleeves to protect your collection.
- Use isolation feet or pads under your turntable to absorb vibrations.
- Avoid playing heavily scratched or damaged records until repaired or restored.
Recommended Products
- Carbon Fiber Vinyl Record Brush: Removes dust and static before playing.
- Spin-Clean Record Washer: A wet cleaning system for deep grime removal.
- Stylus Cleaning Brush or Gel: Keeps the needle dust-free.
- Replacement Stylus: Match your cartridge model for best results.
- Audio Fidelity Improvements Flat.Duo Record Flattener: Fixes warped records safely.
- Spirit Level: Helps check turntable balance.
- Record Sleeves: Protect your vinyl from dust and scratches.
- Protractor Cartridge Alignment Tool: For precise cartridge setup.
- Isolation Feet or Pads: Reduce external vibrations.
Final Tips
- Clean your records and stylus regularly.
- Double-check your turntable’s setup often.
- Replace worn needles promptly.
- Store your vinyl properly to avoid warping.
- Use a record flattener for stubborn warps.
- Handle records carefully to prevent damage.
- Keep your listening area free from vibrations and disturbances.
Following these steps will fix most skipping records and keep your vinyl playing smoothly for years. Your music will sound better, and your collection will last longer.
