Records skipping can be a frustrating experience for anyone who loves listening to music on vinyl. There can be a variety of reasons why records may skip, but the most common causes include dust, scratches, and warping. Understanding the cause of the skipping can help you take the appropriate steps to fix the problem and enjoy your music again.

Dust or debris 

One of the most common causes of skipping records is dust and debris on the surface of the record. Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface of a record over time, and when the needle of the turntable makes contact with these particles, it can cause the record to skip.

To prevent this, it’s important to keep your records clean and free of dust. You can keep them in vinyl storage boxes to protect them. Try cleaning them by using a fiber brush or a microfiber cleaning cloth to gently wipe the surface of your records before each use.

Scratches

Scratches can occur from mishandling or from using a dirty needle on the turntable. Scratches can cause the needle to get stuck in the groove, which causes the record to skip.

It is important to handle your records with care, put them in good CD cases and regularly clean the needle of your turntable. If you have a record with deep scratches, it may be best to replace it.

Warping

Warping occurs when a record is exposed to excessive heat or humidity, which causes it to bend or warp. Warping can cause the needle to come out of the groove, which causes the record to skip. Store your records in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight.

Faulty turntable

A turntable that is not properly calibrated or has worn-out parts, can cause records to skip. This can happen when the stylus is not properly aligned with the record, or the turntable’s motor is not running at the correct speed. 

Worn Out stylus

Another cause of skipping records could be the stylus or needle of the turntable, which can wear out over time or become dirty. A worn-out stylus can cause the record to skip as it can’t trace the grooves correctly. A dirty stylus can also cause skipping as it can’t trace the grooves correctly either. To fix this, regularly clean or replace the stylus or needle of the turntable.

Conclusion

To sum up, skipping records can be a nuisance for those who enjoy listening to music on vinyl. However, by identifying the root cause of the skipping, you can take the necessary steps to rectify the problem and continue to enjoy your music.