Skipping on the drop

Hello! Enjoying one year now with my VPI Prime 21 in Walnut.

I've been having an issue when I play a record and first drop a needle in the initial space before the first song.

This happens almost every time now.

I've checked the turntable and it's perfectly level. I've checked the speed, VTA, azimuth, cart aligment, tracking force as well. All are good from what I can tell, but maybe I'm not doing that right.

Cart is a Hana ML.

The tone arm lifter is pretty weak as well. When you lower the lifter arm down, it doesn't gently lower down the tonearm. You have to basically get it close and then drop it.

What could be causing that initial skipping?

4 comments

Comments (4)

s.ara.h.s.agar.eno

Sep 14

Hi there! It sounds like you're dealing with a frustrating issue. Skipping on the initial drop can often be attributed to a few different factors. Since you've checked the level, speed, VTA, azimuth, and alignment, you're on the right track. However, the weak tonearm lifter could definitely be part of the problem, as it might not be allowing the tonearm to settle properly before it makes contact with the record. It might be worth looking into a replacement or repair for the tonearm lifter to see if that resolves the issue. Additionally, double-checking the tracking force and ensuring that your cartridge is properly aligned with the protractor could also help linkedin essay writing service review. If the problem persists, you might want to consult a professional for a more detailed assessment.

thegage291

Jan 21

Did you also check the clearance between the underside of the tonearm and the lifting pad?

circleone77

Jan 22

Replying to

Yeah, all clear. I think I figured it out. It might have to do with the VTA adjustment.

I made the VTA higher, so now it's not exactly parallel to the platter, but the skipping stopped or is minimized.

The bottom of the hana is almost parallel, so perhaps that's the trick?

Wondering if anyone else with a Hana ML cart had a similar experience.

Apr 05

Replying to

I have a Hana ML and yes, the VTA is difficult to adjust. The entire VTA adjustment is about 2% up from the absolute bottom of it's travel and the arm is very nearly parallel to the record. You might consider lowering your lifting mechanism. It seems the top range of travel stays in the silicon damping fluid better. You might also need to remove, clean, and replace the silicon fluid in your arm lifter.

And by the way: Nice job fixing this yourself. The VPI support staff should have stopped by to help you work through this fix. Why on earth do they stay away from the forum where all of their customers are? 😡