As today marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we have put together a commemorative playlist for anyone celebrating today, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2EOqtE08cYbngVaBgGRhTO?si=05ab6081091149c7

If you’re new to vinyl or just looking for some top tips to keep your vinyl records in tip top condition, please read on:

• Clean your records: Vinyl records are not manufactured in a sterile environment and even new records may contain dust and other particles that could hamper your listening enjoyment. To clean vinyl records, start by brushing away loose dust with an anti-static brush, then gently wipe with a microfiber cloth and vinyl cleaning solution, focusing on the grooves and avoiding the label. Do not use harsh or abrasive chemicals or cloths – use materials specially created for vinyl records.
• Counterbalance your tonearm: To properly counterbalance a turntable tonearm for vinyl playback, you’ll need to first ensure the anti-skate is set to zero, then carefully adjust the counterweight until the tonearm balances horizontally when lifted from its rest. Once balanced, you can adjust the tracking force (downforce) and then set the anti-skate to the desired value.
• Set the correct speed: Vinyl records spin at different speeds, primarily 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM, with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM being the most common today. 33 1/3 RPM is standard for 10-inch and 12-inch records, while 45 RPM is used for 7-inch records, though some 12-inch records also spin at 45 RPM. 78 RPM was the original speed for early phonograph records.
• Skipping Tracks: Avoid manually moving the stylus across the surface of the record to skip tracks, as this can cause scratching and damage to the grooves.
• Playing with a worn or misaligned stylus: Using a worn or misaligned stylus (needle) can cause excessive wear on the record grooves and affect sound quality. Regularly inspect the stylus for signs of wear and replace it when necessary to ensure optimal performance and minimize damage to the records.
• Exposing to direct sunlight: Keep vinyl records away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause warping, fading, and damage to the vinyl material. Store records in a cool, dry environment away from windows and heat sources to preserve their condition.
• Store records vertically: Store vinyl records upright in a vertical position to prevent warping and damage to the edges. Avoid stacking records horizontally, as this can lead to deformation and affect playback quality.
• Don’t touch the playing surface: Avoid touching the playing surface of vinyl records with your fingers. Oils, dirt, and debris from your hands can transfer onto the record and affect sound quality. Always handle records by the edges or the centre label to minimize the risk of contamination.