Thanks for this video! I have the Pro-Ject clamp and find that it does help but only with certain types of warps. The foam ring that comes with Michell appears to make all the difference. Warp seems to be an unavoidable part of this hobby, so I really appreciate you sharing something that actually helps.
I have owned and used mine for about 6 years now and would not be without it. Records with (moderate) warping have been transformed from unplayable to playable. Flat records also sound slightly better. Nice video, well presented.
I'm pretty sure those VMP warped Lps are caused by the booklets putting pressure against the vinyl while it's sealed. This is very common with ANY vinyl that is shipped with booklets/thick inserts that are not full size.
I think those books get a bad rep. I love them - but I do wish they would just ship them outside jacket - I have actually gotten a bunch of warps from records without the books - like the exclusives.
Looks like a nice product for tables that don’t come with a clamp system of some sort. Since the 80’s several companies have had clamps and vacuum platers systems to deal with record warpage. VPI among others have record clamps as a standard feature, and have done so for years. Record warping is nothing new of corse, but it does seem to be more of a problem these days.
Hi I've had this clamp for a few years now. I got a warped record the other day and had forgotten this clamp rectified the problem. Then used it again and great problem solved. I lost the felt washer thingy and the clamp still works without it. Enjoy your records
I spoke to Michell here in the UK, I actually have that Spyro SE turntable. They advised me that using the clamp at all times on records that were perfectly flat as well gives you an uplift in same quality. I can confirm that this is very true. No surprise though for me as this turntable of theirs is absolutely stunning.
The only thing it does for a flat Lp is hold it tight to the platter. If you can hear a difference I'd be very surprised, doesn't really matter what they claim.
I agree, this is a great tool to have. I actually use a small rubber washer from the hardware store- (3/4" washer, 5/16" hole, 1/16" thick)...works great on my Technics SL-100C, I have the Michell 'R' clamp which is designed for slightly shorter spindles.
A warped (wavy) record is different then a dished or bowled record. Be VERY careful about applying to much pressure, it can have negative consequences on the bearing and or direct drive motor. If using a clamp that does not have the felt pad then applying to much pressure can actually cause the record to dish up on outer perimeter.
Reflex clamps that use something to lift the center of the record are nothing new, but most use a threaded spindle and are made by the manufacturer of a specific turntable. VPI, SME, Brinkmann, and many others use this arrangement. I believe Oracle was the first, with the Delphi turntable in the late 1970s. The Michell clamp is unusual, in that it is designed as a universal design which will work on any turntable.
good on you for naming the source video. Like your editing too. That foam ring is the ground breaker really. Clamp alone will only do what all other clamps on the market do,
I'm just going to be real, I don't really know anything about vinyl or this clamp, but I was totally engaged the whole time. Killer presentation of info, fantastic looking set up, and great edit... New sub here looking forward to learning more about this subject or whatever you want to make a video on!!
Awesome! Thanks for the kind words and the SUB! Just an FYI - the newest video (Philly Soul 45) is shot with the A7C II and most of the B-Roll of the records is done with the Samyang 45 1.8 - with the beta firmware - which seems to be working very well in both video and photos.
Good video and very relevant subject for vinyl enthusiasts. I purchased a Nagaoka record champ in the 1980’s that is similar but better than the Mitchell which I also have. So clamps are much better than weights I agree. The other point you made is that record quality has dropped off since vinyl records hay days and until this generation of record/vinyl manufactures get up to speed there will and is a lot of badly made records being produced today. Thankfully they are still being made for us whom appreciate the sound nuance of vinyl as well as the ritual of spinning a disc. It just seems to be a lucky dip as to wether or not you get a good or bad record.
I put my warped records on a clean glass outdoor table in the sun with a big jar of water on the label for half an hour on a warm day does the trick mighty fine
I don't have an issue with the convex (where the center is raised) side of a dished record, because the edges are flat. The issue is the concave side with the raised edges - clamps don't work on that side, since the center is already flat, so the clamp does nothing to flatten the raised outside edge.
Just ordered mine. I also have the RT85 and Im a VMP member. They put out such great stuff but my only complaint is that some have that warp that drives me nuts.
My Music Hall mmf 5.3 has a screw on record clamp. Gonna look for the felt pad to see if it works better on the warps. Also considering getting the Record Pi.
I'm going to have to look this up online and order one for myself I'm a vinyl collector also 👍💯🥁 great album display of Black Sabbath paranoid oh yeah I have that album myself lol love that album
@@PiecesofVinyl it's kinda got 3 outrigger arm that press down on the label section when the middle red button is pressed. Probably a long extinct dedign!
Wait until you discover weight-rings... :) Sometimes not even the Michell with felt pad works, then the weight-ring comes into place. Also, you do not need to put that much force onto the record with the Michell Clamp, The clamp should increase force while you turn the screw, unless you have a very weird center tab.
New subscriber here. Been debating about weights or clamps for a while. Recently got a vintage Thorens TD160 TT. Wondering if this will work on older tables as well ? Anyway thanks for the info.
I know people have used this on older TT's so you should be good - I would measure the spindle length and choose between the two sizes they offer. thanks for watching!
FINALLY! Someone calling me out in the comments for a future video reference - I have started and stopped that video like 10 times - I will now make it a point to finish! Thanks!
I purchased a JA Michelle turntable many decades ago (Where does the time go?), and it came with a clamp, but it is metal. Looks just like this one, but metal. I did not use it with a felt washer, perhaps I should?
@@PiecesofVinyl I thought the clamp just helped keep your record - lp - more steady on the platter, I did not realize it helped flatten your record on the platter. My record player is currently in storage. I purchased it from a well known audio store in New York City, that sells high end used equipment. This was in 1990. It was expensive at the time, but I think they just took the price of the turntable, tonearm, cartridge and sold it for 30 % of that price, original msrp price. I never had a problem with the turntable, although I did not use it that much. When I purchased it (Gyro dek) it did not come with a ac/dc power supply. They said it was in the shop somewhere. I had to wait a long time for it. I think they ordered me a new one, and I think that helped the sales person loose his job. When I went back to the store to inquire about my power supply I asked for the sales person and was informed he no longer worked there. Which I thought was very strange. Although this is all just speculation on my part. I didn't appreciate having a turntable that was not working, since when I bought it, it was missing the ac power block. Eventually they had one for me and I was able to enjoy my turntable. I currently purchased 3 turntables, that I will have refurbished for relatives and my self - a Preston/Bogan @1960 one speed turntable, a rek-o-kut 12gbh, and a gray research one speed turntable. I also purchased a turntable with no plinth - a rek-o-kut varible speed turntable. These are my projects to get restored and up and running in the next year. The rek-o-kuts and gray platters are very heavy and I hope should play nicely, as they all have what appear to be very strong electrical motors on them. I have both old and new tonearms to go with them. I also have, I'm not sure of the brand, a 1930's 33 1/3 and 78 rpm transcription record player, that I have to take the top off to see what is under the platter, and a 1950's transcription rca portable turntable. I'm not sure how portable it is, you can carry it, but it is very heavy and large. This is a I think mono turntable, but should not be hard to convert over to stereo. I have perhaps 185 transcription lps - these are the 16 inch vinyl lps. I'm sure the new Michell clamp would work wonders on all of these turntables.
Warped Records is due to postage. Not been packed correctly, too lose so when the courier picks it up incorrectly the process begins. Add the heat while being transported, then being thrown around. That's how you end up with warped records. Its all in the packaging. Hass to be densely packed.
I always thought it happened before getting to the record store/dealer - coming off the assembly line - the record is still warm and then placed into the jacket while the PVC is still kinda moldable - I bet its a combination of all of these and each one might be different.
It gives less stress to your cart - since its not following a warp - and I would imagine there would be some playback improvement since on a dish warped record - the stylus could be traveling up hill or downhill and start to effect the speed of the record.
Argument: a record weight without a clamp DOES help. It has to be pretty heavy. I use a 1.7 pound Pro-ject record puck with a Rega P3 turntable/TT PSU power supply and I found that it tightened up the sound, especially the bass, considerably. I'm a big fan. I'll agree totally that it's not MEANT to be a warped record flattener - a clamp will work better for that but if the warp is near the edge even that will be useless. If the warp is bowl shaped, you're SOL on one of the sides even with a clamp. I've wanted to get a clamp to compare with my heavy puck, but have been putting it off because the Rega spindle has a bit of a taper towards the top and I believe that will cause issues with the clamp wanting to slip upward. If you have a Dual or any other suspended turntable, go with a lightweight clamp because the heavy puck will bottom out your turntable against the base. It's not pretty. Hopefully your spindle will have enough friction holding it in place so that it won't lift up from the force of the clamp (not sure if this is an issue for Duals that didn't have a stacking spindle option). Of course, there's always the ages old option of putting a nickel on the cartridge head...
I have a 700gram weight from Fluance and I actually started to think it was affecting the rotation - they claim that it 100% doesn't - so maybe I was hearing something different.
Even better would be a periphery or outer edge weight, just need to make sure that it is heavy enough to flatten the worst warped albums in your collection.
I have done research on this clamp. It is a very well built and heavy clamp. I am told DO NOT use this on Rega turntables. It throws off the balance of the platter and bearing
@@PiecesofVinyl All I can think of is that it would throw extra weight on to one of the rubber support feet and that would cause the platter to list towards that microscopically compressed foot. I'll check that with my Rega and Pro-ject puck. If it's a well made puck or clamp, it shouldn't affect the center of balance for the record platter at all.
Great product, used it for a few years! However, I have recently noticed that the platter has started to wobble on my Technics 1200 mk2. Could it be the disc clamp that caused it from the pressure when pressing the disc down?
The confusing thing about this clamp is there are 2 different types, one for a shorter spindle, some spindles are long but taper off at the end so it's hard to know which one to buy
They list the standard as useable for 6.5mm spindles. They list the R version for rega tables at 5mm so you could measure your spindle and see which works. I think the standard is good for most people.
this was designed in Australia - so it spins the opposite way - but NO! I didn't realize - oh well - there is an easter egg in this video did you find that???
A Vinyl Flat brand device and its warming pouch has been a great way to flatten many of these warped records. I also have the Michelle clamp. But if you're going to use the warming pouch, DO NOT use any setting above LOW. Trust me on this. I've ruined a few records during the learning curve time with this system. I have had very good results but it does take a bit of experimentation to get your methods established. Not all records will respond, but it's been my experience that most will. Oh, and don't leave the record in the warming pouch more than three hours. For the first hour leave it be. After that turn the record 180 degrees every half hour to evenly distribute the heat applied as it can be somewhat uneven due to the arrangement of the heating elements in the warming pouch. Good luck everybody!!
Good info. I have been testing out the vinyl flat very cautiously for a few months now and I have had very mixed results and have been reluctant to share them. Mine doesn’t seem to get up to a high enough temp on low. Or even high. I had mine set to high and used the provided thermometer and it was still well below 130 degrees and it seems to heat very unevenly. I have only had one successful record so far.
Hi, i have an RT85 with the acrylic platter too. Im using a Tonar nostatic mat on the platter. Will this work with the mat in place as i noticed you are clamping direct to the acrylic platter.
The pushing down only happens once to get the clamp on. I don’t think there is any excessive weight happening to the motor. This thing is very light. Also it’s made for a turntable(s) that cost way more than the fluance so it I think it’s fine.
@@PiecesofVinyl Well I have quite few times. The pick up swings and causes WOW which is very annoying with classical music. Thankfully I now use a CD player.
you do need to heat to permanently fix warps - but I have found it to be a very hit or miss game - and very dangerous - I lost BS Paranoid going to a service at that for "flattening" - my thing is - if its flat while its playing - why do I care if its not flat anywhere else?
The Michell clamp is just that a clamp, it’s not a weight, you turn the knob on top to lock it in place, it doesn’t add any significant weight to the bearing.
The Paranoid record is still warped, the clamp just reduces the effect of the warp. This state of affairs is absolutely insufferable. I will never by a new record again after 7 of 10 new purchases this fall were warped. It's an industry wide plague that could be remedied if we weren't so apathetic. The market drives change. Simply flat out refuse brand new vinyl that's warped. Period.
It’s still a little warped but much better and actually playable now. That said it’s more of an edge warp which this isn’t the best at handling. I agree with the plague of warps it’s an issue for sure.
@@624radicalham I don’t think this is audiophile garbage. Maybe a record weight could be considered that but with this - There is a clear result…the record played wavey and warped and now it’s flat. At the very least it’s def. Saving wear on your stylus.
@@PiecesofVinyl Ok I can appreciate that. Most of your comments are akin to what they call "fence sitting" meaning you don't want to rock the boat or upset anyone, but with this hobby having an edge shows character and having strong opinions like you just wrote are awesome. Great video quality by the way!
This thing cost $90.00 on Amazon. There are others starting at about $18.00. What's the difference and should I buy this expensive one? I'm not against spending the 90 dollars but it would be nice to get a cheaper one that does the same thing. Thanks, I've never heard of such a contraption, it's great! Thanks. I liked your video and even did something I rarely do, I subscribed. 😊
Thanks for subscribing! I think the main difference from this to cheaper ones - might be the material used - on the Michell its listed as Delrin - and from my own - its a softer rubber and can mold to the vinyl more - in combo with the felt pad - it pops out the dish warp - the others listed didnt have a felt (not that you couldn't easily add one) but - they look like hard plastic, and wouldn't conform to the Dish warp - at least that is my guess - maybe I will get one of these cheaper ones and check it out - this thing is a god send - but if its $70 cheaper - that is a HUGE win.
Terrible clickbait. It "fixes" nothing. It masks it. Buy a record flattener and it will pay for itself in dividends. These weights and clamps are scams imo. Actually FIX the record instead of working around the problem. Also, clamps don't do so great to "fix" other warp issues. Literally, 6/10 new records I buy have some some of warp (including dish warped). I always have a record in my flattener. Please look into a proper solution and not hacks.
wow - thanks for watching - its def. not clickbait - it is a temporary fix - but if it lasts the entire time the record is spinning - what difference does it make? it actually does work on dish warps - edge warps not so much - and if you are getting 6/10 records warped - you gotta get some better vinyl. I bought 12 records in the past 30 days - and four of them were double albums - one was a triple - so way more then 12 actual records and 2 of them were slightly warped - and I returned them and got a better copy. I have used the Vinyl Flat - it costs $300 and I tried it for three months on 6 different records and only one had one slight result - record weights - I cant speak to their effectiveness - they also don't claim to flatten records usually - but this clamp - worked better then the $300 Vinyl Flat solution - for when I am actually spinning the record on the table - which is all I really care about. Every dish warped record I have tried this on - it works - and in the video there is proof of that - so def. not clickbait.
If the dish warped record plays flat when you go listen to it using this tool - then it works - right? The end goal of fixing a record that is dish warped is to to get it to play flat- right? If you watched this video to fix a dish warped record and bought this device - when you use this device - it would have fixed your problem on the turntable - when listening to your records - Where it matters.
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Thanks for this video! I have the Pro-Ject clamp and find that it does help but only with certain types of warps. The foam ring that comes with Michell appears to make all the difference. Warp seems to be an unavoidable part of this hobby, so I really appreciate you sharing something that actually helps.
Do you feel this one is better than the pro-ject?
I have owned and used mine for about 6 years now and would not be without it. Records with (moderate) warping have been transformed from unplayable to playable. Flat records also sound slightly better.
Nice video, well presented.
Thanks for watching!
Been using mine for 15 years now on my gyrodec. It's a great product.
I'm pretty sure those VMP warped Lps are caused by the booklets putting pressure against the vinyl while it's sealed. This is very common with ANY vinyl that is shipped with booklets/thick inserts that are not full size.
I think those books get a bad rep. I love them - but I do wish they would just ship them outside jacket - I have actually gotten a bunch of warps from records without the books - like the exclusives.
Looks like a nice product for tables that don’t come with a clamp system of some sort. Since the 80’s several companies have had clamps and vacuum platers systems to deal with record warpage. VPI among others have record clamps as a standard feature, and have done so for years. Record warping is nothing new of corse, but it does seem to be more of a problem these days.
Hi I've had this clamp for a few years now. I got a warped record the other day and had forgotten this clamp rectified the problem. Then used it again and great problem solved. I lost the felt washer thingy and the clamp still works without it. Enjoy your records
good to know it works without the washer
I spoke to Michell here in the UK, I actually have that Spyro SE turntable. They advised me that using the clamp at all times on records that were perfectly flat as well gives you an uplift in same quality. I can confirm that this is very true. No surprise though for me as this turntable of theirs is absolutely stunning.
Good to know. Wish I had one of these tables!
The only thing it does for a flat Lp is hold it tight to the platter. If you can hear a difference I'd be very surprised, doesn't really matter what they claim.
Very good device. Go to half way if you don’t want to listen at him complain. Good video information, thanks
I do have this problem from time to time. I just ordered the "R" version to use with my Rega Planar 8. Thanks!
I live in Australia 🇦🇺& I will definitely enquire about this at my usual record shop in Sydney, a definite must to have!
Hello in Australia!
I agree, this is a great tool to have. I actually use a small rubber washer from the hardware store-
(3/4" washer, 5/16" hole, 1/16" thick)...works great on my Technics SL-100C, I have the Michell 'R' clamp which is designed for slightly shorter spindles.
A warped (wavy) record is different then a dished or bowled record.
Be VERY careful about applying to much pressure, it can have negative consequences on the bearing and or direct drive motor.
If using a clamp that does not have the felt pad then applying to much pressure can actually cause the record to dish up on outer perimeter.
What is you're using a belt drive turntable?
Reflex clamps that use something to lift the center of the record are nothing new, but most use a threaded spindle and are made by the manufacturer of a specific turntable. VPI, SME, Brinkmann, and many others use this arrangement. I believe Oracle was the first, with the Delphi turntable in the late 1970s.
The Michell clamp is unusual, in that it is designed as a universal design which will work on any turntable.
good on you for naming the source video. Like your editing too. That foam ring is the ground breaker really. Clamp alone will only do what all other clamps on the market do,
Right …the foam ring is unique to this form what I have seen. And @vinylfury has had this for years!
I'm just going to be real, I don't really know anything about vinyl or this clamp, but I was totally engaged the whole time. Killer presentation of info, fantastic looking set up, and great edit...
New sub here looking forward to learning more about this subject or whatever you want to make a video on!!
Awesome! Thanks for the kind words and the SUB! Just an FYI - the newest video (Philly Soul 45) is shot with the A7C II and most of the B-Roll of the records is done with the Samyang 45 1.8 - with the beta firmware - which seems to be working very well in both video and photos.
@@PiecesofVinyl awesome, I'm checking that out now...
This clamp helps the sound in general, improves distortions and separation.
I just ordered a record online and it arrived warped. This is very helpful.
Good luck!
Good video and very relevant subject for vinyl enthusiasts.
I purchased a Nagaoka record champ in the 1980’s that is similar but better than the Mitchell which I also have. So clamps are much better than weights I agree.
The other point you made is that record quality has dropped off since vinyl records hay days and until this generation of record/vinyl manufactures get up to speed there will and is a lot of badly made records being produced today. Thankfully they are still being made for us whom appreciate the sound nuance of vinyl as well as the ritual of spinning a disc. It just seems to be a lucky dip as to wether or not you get a good or bad record.
I put my warped records on a clean glass outdoor table in the sun with a big jar of water on the label for half an hour on a warm day does the trick mighty fine
Super risky. But if it worked then I guess right on!
I don't have an issue with the convex (where the center is raised) side of a dished record, because the edges are flat. The issue is the concave side with the raised edges - clamps don't work on that side, since the center is already flat, so the clamp does nothing to flatten the raised outside edge.
Just ordered mine. I also have the RT85 and Im a VMP member. They put out such great stuff but my only complaint is that some have that warp that drives me nuts.
This will not disappoint!
Thanks dude 👍 still using mine every time. Cue the 'you're pressing too hard' comments!
Nice! I feel like I have to with mine for the vinyl to touch. And thank you for your recommendation! Glad you’re posting more!
VPI turntables comes with a rubber washer for lifting the center for their clamp. If your records are cupped, takes it right out!
That is convenient.
The felt pad is just for use on Michelle turntables as there is a small recess on the platter
It’s on the directions of the clamp when you get it. The felt pad gives you a raised center to allow it to do its thing.
Warped records = bad. This video = good. Real good. Keep it up Rocco 👏🏻👏🏻
And lemme know if you have any interest in a chat for the pod. Would be fun to hear about your YT + record journey to date 🤔
Yes! Definitely. Hit me up through my website email in the description and we can set something up.
My Music Hall mmf 5.3 has a screw on record clamp. Gonna look for the felt pad to see if it works better on the warps.
Also considering getting the Record Pi.
I want to try the record pi - I tried the vinyl flat and it didnt work well - in either case - you gotta be careful!
I'm going to have to look this up online and order one for myself I'm a vinyl collector also 👍💯🥁 great album display of Black Sabbath paranoid oh yeah I have that album myself lol love that album
Been rocking one for almost 10 years 😎 I'm pretty sure mine's made of machined aluminum though, not a hard plastic or rubber material.
Nice! Hey thanks for recommend on all-town as well …when the next cash flow comes I’m start picking them up. I love getting into labels early!
I think they're made of delrin
Mine is metal too !
Had a Pickering red dot clamp for at least 30 years!
I have not heard of that one.
@@PiecesofVinyl it's kinda got 3 outrigger arm that press down on the label section when the middle red button is pressed. Probably a long extinct dedign!
Wait until you discover weight-rings... :) Sometimes not even the Michell with felt pad works, then the weight-ring comes into place. Also, you do not need to put that much force onto the record with the Michell Clamp, The clamp should increase force while you turn the screw, unless you have a very weird center tab.
I found those and was very mystified. You say they work well?
Just discovered your channel. Great content. Subscribed.
Wow! Do I Need This! Thanks For The Review!
New subscriber here. Been debating about weights or clamps for a while. Recently got a vintage Thorens TD160 TT. Wondering if this will work on older tables as well ? Anyway thanks for the info.
I know people have used this on older TT's so you should be good - I would measure the spindle length and choose between the two sizes they offer. thanks for watching!
How did the ORB destroy your record?
Wheres that Black Sabbath video you said you were going to make?
FINALLY! Someone calling me out in the comments for a future video reference - I have started and stopped that video like 10 times - I will now make it a point to finish! Thanks!
I purchased a JA Michelle turntable many decades ago (Where does the time go?), and it came with a clamp, but it is metal. Looks just like this one, but metal. I did not use it with a felt washer, perhaps I should?
Would love to have one of those tables! I’m not sure if the new ones being rubber has anything to do with it but you should def check it out.
@@PiecesofVinyl I thought the clamp just helped keep your record - lp - more steady on the platter, I did not realize it helped flatten your record on the platter. My record player is currently in storage. I purchased it from a well known audio store in New York City, that sells high end used equipment. This was in 1990. It was expensive at the time, but I think they just took the price of the turntable, tonearm, cartridge and sold it for 30 % of that price, original msrp price. I never had a problem with the turntable, although I did not use it that much. When I purchased it (Gyro dek) it did not come with a ac/dc power supply. They said it was in the shop somewhere. I had to wait a long time for it. I think they ordered me a new one, and I think that helped the sales person loose his job. When I went back to the store to inquire about my power supply I asked for the sales person and was informed he no longer worked there. Which I thought was very strange. Although this is all just speculation on my part. I didn't appreciate having a turntable that was not working, since when I bought it, it was missing the ac power block. Eventually they had one for me and I was able to enjoy my turntable. I currently purchased 3 turntables, that I will have refurbished for relatives and my self - a Preston/Bogan @1960 one speed turntable, a rek-o-kut 12gbh, and a gray research one speed turntable. I also purchased a turntable with no plinth - a rek-o-kut varible speed turntable. These are my projects to get restored and up and running in the next year. The rek-o-kuts and gray platters are very heavy and I hope should play nicely, as they all have what appear to be very strong electrical motors on them. I have both old and new tonearms to go with them. I also have, I'm not sure of the brand, a 1930's 33 1/3 and 78 rpm transcription record player, that I have to take the top off to see what is under the platter, and a 1950's transcription rca portable turntable. I'm not sure how portable it is, you can carry it, but it is very heavy and large. This is a I think mono turntable, but should not be hard to convert over to stereo. I have perhaps 185 transcription lps - these are the 16 inch vinyl lps. I'm sure the new Michell clamp would work wonders on all of these turntables.
Warped Records is due to postage. Not been packed correctly, too lose so when the courier picks it up incorrectly the process begins. Add the heat while being transported, then being thrown around. That's how you end up with warped records.
Its all in the packaging.
Hass to be densely packed.
I always thought it happened before getting to the record store/dealer - coming off the assembly line - the record is still warm and then placed into the jacket while the PVC is still kinda moldable - I bet its a combination of all of these and each one might be different.
Does using the clamp on a slightly warped record result in a noticeable improvement in playback quality?
It gives less stress to your cart - since its not following a warp - and I would imagine there would be some playback improvement since on a dish warped record - the stylus could be traveling up hill or downhill and start to effect the speed of the record.
Argument: a record weight without a clamp DOES help. It has to be pretty heavy. I use a 1.7 pound Pro-ject record puck with a Rega P3 turntable/TT PSU power supply and I found that it tightened up the sound, especially the bass, considerably. I'm a big fan.
I'll agree totally that it's not MEANT to be a warped record flattener - a clamp will work better for that but if the warp is near the edge even that will be useless. If the warp is bowl shaped, you're SOL on one of the sides even with a clamp.
I've wanted to get a clamp to compare with my heavy puck, but have been putting it off because the Rega spindle has a bit of a taper towards the top and I believe that will cause issues with the clamp wanting to slip upward.
If you have a Dual or any other suspended turntable, go with a lightweight clamp because the heavy puck will bottom out your turntable against the base. It's not pretty. Hopefully your spindle will have enough friction holding it in place so that it won't lift up from the force of the clamp (not sure if this is an issue for Duals that didn't have a stacking spindle option).
Of course, there's always the ages old option of putting a nickel on the cartridge head...
I have a 700gram weight from Fluance and I actually started to think it was affecting the rotation - they claim that it 100% doesn't - so maybe I was hearing something different.
Great video! I’m going to check this out!
Does this really FIX the record or just flatten it while it plays?
it flattens them while they are playing - its not heating the vinyl to re mold it - buy while they are playing they are great!
@@PiecesofVinyl might need to check this out
Even better would be a periphery or outer edge weight, just need to make sure that it is heavy enough to flatten the worst warped albums in your collection.
I have done research on this clamp. It is a very well built and heavy clamp. I am told DO NOT use this on Rega turntables. It throws off the balance of the platter and bearing
How would it throw off the balance? I hadn’t heard that.
@@PiecesofVinyl All I can think of is that it would throw extra weight on to one of the rubber support feet and that would cause the platter to list towards that microscopically compressed foot. I'll check that with my Rega and Pro-ject puck.
If it's a well made puck or clamp, it shouldn't affect the center of balance for the record platter at all.
Great product, used it for a few years! However, I have recently noticed that the platter has started to wobble on my Technics 1200 mk2. Could it be the disc clamp that caused it from the pressure when pressing the disc down?
I have never had a Technics but I hear they are like tanks. I can’t imagine this little thing doing them wrong.
The confusing thing about this clamp is there are 2 different types, one for a shorter spindle, some spindles are long but taper off at the end so it's hard to know which one to buy
They list the standard as useable for 6.5mm spindles. They list the R version for rega tables at 5mm so you could measure your spindle and see which works. I think the standard is good for most people.
@@PiecesofVinyl
The taper at the end of my spindle is the tricky part, it might measure a certain length but the top few mm aren't tapered
Do you know that the 45 adapter in your intro is spinning in the wrong direction... 😜
this was designed in Australia - so it spins the opposite way - but NO! I didn't realize - oh well - there is an easter egg in this video did you find that???
That wouldn't work on my Dual 1214 because the spindle stays in place and the platter turns around it. It might even fry the motor.
oh- that would be bad!
A Vinyl Flat brand device and its warming pouch has been a great way to flatten many of these warped records. I also have the Michelle clamp. But if you're going to use the warming pouch, DO NOT use any setting above LOW. Trust me on this. I've ruined a few records during the learning curve time with this system. I have had very good results but it does take a bit of experimentation to get your methods established. Not all records will respond, but it's been my experience that most will. Oh, and don't leave the record in the warming pouch more than three hours. For the first hour leave it be. After that turn the record 180 degrees every half hour to evenly distribute the heat applied as it can be somewhat uneven due to the arrangement of the heating elements in the warming pouch. Good luck everybody!!
Good info. I have been testing out the vinyl flat very cautiously for a few months now and I have had very mixed results and have been reluctant to share them. Mine doesn’t seem to get up to a high enough temp on low. Or even high. I had mine set to high and used the provided thermometer and it was still well below 130 degrees and it seems to heat very unevenly. I have only had one successful record so far.
Hi, i have an RT85 with the acrylic platter too. Im using a Tonar nostatic mat on the platter. Will this work with the mat in place as i noticed you are clamping direct to the acrylic platter.
Not sure. It probably would there seems to be a good bit of clearance on the spindle for the fluance.
@@PiecesofVinyl Thanks, i think i will purchase one
So any right size felt washer and locking clamp would work?
I can’t speak to that. Most of the other clamps I have seen are metal so I’m not sure if that would be an issue.
Will it not destroy the motor due to constant pushing down?
The pushing down only happens once to get the clamp on. I don’t think there is any excessive weight happening to the motor. This thing is very light. Also it’s made for a turntable(s) that cost way more than the fluance so it I think it’s fine.
Kuzma supply the same type of clamp with some of their turntables. Its not Michell exclusive
Good to know!
Hello there, would the standard work with a technics 1200 or will the “R” be a better fit?
Thank you
I think the standard should be ok for the technics but measure it. The standard is for 6.5mm and the r is for 5mm
Thank you. I assume standard would be fine but I am using a 5mm mat on my technics, which is why I considered the “R” version.
The Michell one is nice but you can get one that is the same for a lot less money.
Michell make the Gyrodeck turntable. I think it's pronounced like it has a t in it.
I would LOVE to try one of their Turntables.
Michell Record Clamp Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
If that is on Amazon check their site directly. That said they have gone and come back in stock since I bought about this about two months ago.
@Pieces of Vinyl thank you. Great video. I just discovered the concept of clamps a few weeks ago.
What about records where the hole isn't in the middle?
I have never run across that yet.
@@PiecesofVinyl Well I have quite few times. The pick up swings and causes WOW which is very annoying with classical music. Thankfully I now use a CD player.
not to mention that this isn't a permanent solution. You need heat to fix warps.
you do need to heat to permanently fix warps - but I have found it to be a very hit or miss game - and very dangerous - I lost BS Paranoid going to a service at that for "flattening" - my thing is - if its flat while its playing - why do I care if its not flat anywhere else?
i would not feel comfortable about apply pressure which may lead to damage bearings over time
Yeah, can't be good for the bearing.
The Michell clamp is just that a clamp, it’s not a weight, you turn the knob on top to lock it in place, it doesn’t add any significant weight to the bearing.
Bearings? You mean the motor? This wouldn’t affect the bearings at all.
Actually you’re wrong.
Does it damage the spindle? Like does it mar it up?
I have not noticed any damage to the spindle on either a fluance RT85 or the AT-LP7.
@@PiecesofVinyl how come you switched from the fluance to the lp7?
Will this work on a Rega TT? Specifically a Rega Planar 6?
I am pretty sure the R version will. It says it’s designed for Rega TT. Link is in the description of the video.
I do not see the R version. Just the one. Can you please provide a link to the R version?
I found it! Ordered it!!
I fix my warped and dished vinyl using a Vinyl Flat. Follow the directions exactly and you will have nothing but perfectly flat records.
I have tried it numerous times and I have only had one record actually fix - all the others nothing happened.
@@PiecesofVinyl I use my new LG electric oven with an external thermometer and probe, not their heated pouch. I have yet to NOT have success.
The Paranoid record is still warped, the clamp just reduces the effect of the warp. This state of affairs is absolutely insufferable. I will never by a new record again after 7 of 10 new purchases this fall were warped. It's an industry wide plague that could be remedied if we weren't so apathetic. The market drives change. Simply flat out refuse brand new vinyl that's warped. Period.
It’s still a little warped but much better and actually playable now. That said it’s more of an edge warp which this isn’t the best at handling. I agree with the plague of warps it’s an issue for sure.
Does oz work on an AT120?
I think it would.
Man if it was 30 bones
. I like it
Does this work for LP12 as well
You mean a 12” Lp? Yes it works for full size LPs. I have not tried this with a 45 7inch.
@@PiecesofVinyl Hi I meant to say LP12 Linn Sondek as it has a suspended platter.
Get a record pie. It works and it’s permanent.
I have been testing out the vinyl flat and want to try the record pi. Def keep checking back for updates on that!
I’d much rather just correct the vinyl. 🤷♂️
Sold out 😂
Try the michell site directly. But it will come back. They have been selling these for years.
Really makes you wonder how anybody could of possibly played vinyl records 50 years ago 🤔
It’s kinda like weed. It’s just better now!
*could have
@@PiecesofVinyl The point is that none of this audiophile garbage is needed ...
@@624radicalham I don’t think this is audiophile garbage. Maybe a record weight could be considered that but with this - There is a clear result…the record played wavey and warped and now it’s flat. At the very least it’s def. Saving wear on your stylus.
@@PiecesofVinyl Ok I can appreciate that. Most of your comments are akin to what they call "fence sitting" meaning you don't want to rock the boat or upset anyone, but with this hobby having an edge shows character and having strong opinions like you just wrote are awesome. Great video quality by the way!
Seems like your luck sucks with that number of warped records coming your way…
My luck sucks even more. After getting this I have significantly less warped records!
This thing cost $90.00 on Amazon. There are others starting at about $18.00. What's the difference and should I buy this expensive one? I'm not against spending the 90 dollars but it would be nice to get a cheaper one that does the same thing. Thanks, I've never heard of such a contraption, it's great! Thanks. I liked your video and even did something I rarely do, I subscribed. 😊
Thanks for subscribing! I think the main difference from this to cheaper ones - might be the material used - on the Michell its listed as Delrin - and from my own - its a softer rubber and can mold to the vinyl more - in combo with the felt pad - it pops out the dish warp - the others listed didnt have a felt (not that you couldn't easily add one) but - they look like hard plastic, and wouldn't conform to the Dish warp - at least that is my guess - maybe I will get one of these cheaper ones and check it out - this thing is a god send - but if its $70 cheaper - that is a HUGE win.
Why the hell did people start calling records "vinyls" this was never a thing in the past
I call it vinyl or vinyl records. I dont use the term vinyls. But I do use pieces of vinyl😎
@@PiecesofVinyl They are just simply, records
The same ppl who say “no cap”
Its not michell , its Michell
It's not perfect but better
No thank you. I never used clamps. Get vinyl flat.
Terrible clickbait. It "fixes" nothing. It masks it. Buy a record flattener and it will pay for itself in dividends. These weights and clamps are scams imo. Actually FIX the record instead of working around the problem. Also, clamps don't do so great to "fix" other warp issues. Literally, 6/10 new records I buy have some some of warp (including dish warped). I always have a record in my flattener. Please look into a proper solution and not hacks.
wow - thanks for watching - its def. not clickbait - it is a temporary fix - but if it lasts the entire time the record is spinning - what difference does it make? it actually does work on dish warps - edge warps not so much - and if you are getting 6/10 records warped - you gotta get some better vinyl. I bought 12 records in the past 30 days - and four of them were double albums - one was a triple - so way more then 12 actual records and 2 of them were slightly warped - and I returned them and got a better copy. I have used the Vinyl Flat - it costs $300 and I tried it for three months on 6 different records and only one had one slight result - record weights - I cant speak to their effectiveness - they also don't claim to flatten records usually - but this clamp - worked better then the $300 Vinyl Flat solution - for when I am actually spinning the record on the table - which is all I really care about. Every dish warped record I have tried this on - it works - and in the video there is proof of that - so def. not clickbait.
This guy must’ve been really pissed from the outcome of the 2024 election results?😅
what about this video makes you think this? is it the flattening of the records? or the example of Black Sabbath? 🤔
I return new warped records and I don't buy second hand records that are warped. Problem solved.
Sometimes you can’t always return them or (in some cases) it’s a true limited edited and only 500 or so pressed.
Eh…….
90 dollars ? Sorry, but that's just stupid.
That's not fixing a warped record...clickbait 🫤
If the dish warped record plays flat when you go listen to it using this tool - then it works - right? The end goal of fixing a record that is dish warped is to to get it to play flat- right? If you watched this video to fix a dish warped record and bought this device - when you use this device - it would have fixed your problem on the turntable - when listening to your records - Where it matters.