The Secret Society of Lathe Trolls

JayDC · Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 3:59 am Post subject: Audio Lathe Troubleshooting

*Note: This was taken from the VRX-2000 manual I found online, but I'm pretty sure it would apply to almost any cutting system.

1 Use a test blank to check before going to a final cut.

2 If you have any problems check stylus heat, stylus
pressure, stylus angle, static build up, cleanliness
of vinyl and any external signal devices you may be
using.

3 If you are still experiencing problems, use a test
blank and record with no input signal.
The vinyl off-cut should be straight(a).
If it is showing big curls the angle of the stylus
should be adjusted, or the stylus should be replaced(b)(e).
If the off-cuts are straight, but very thin,
increase the stylus pressure(c).
If it is curly and too thin, the stylus temperature is too low(d).
If the off-cut breaks as you record,
the stylus temperature is too high(f).

4 Cutting in this way requires experience.
Please take your time, and be patient, using test blanks
to ensure you have the heat, the pressure and the angle
of the stylus all correct.

5 If there is noise on the playback there are two main
reasons. Firstly, if there is random noise or “white
noise” the stylus tip may be broken or the disc is
not clean enough. Secondly, if there is static noise
apply anti static spay and ensure the Ioniser is turned on.

Hope this info will help someone out.. l8r..