Vinyl Skipping? Here’s How to Fix It Fast
That heart-sinking moment when your favorite record starts jumping grooves - we've all been there. Before you blame the pressing or retire the record to your wall art collection, try these quick fixes for vinyl skipping. Most skips aren't permanent, and with the right approach, you can often get your records spinning smoothly again in minutes.
1. Start With the Basics: Clean Your Record
90% of skipping issues disappear after a proper cleaning. Here's how to do it right:
- Use a carbon fiber brush before each play to remove surface dust
- For stubborn grime, try a vinyl cleaning solution and microfiber cloth (always wipe in circles with the groove)
Pro Tip: Never use alcohol-based cleaners - they can damage the vinyl compound over time.
2. Check Your Turntable Setup
An improperly balanced tonearm is public enemy #1 for skips. Run through this checklist:
- Verify your tracking force with a digital scale (most cartridges need 1.5-2g)
- Check anti-skate settings (should match your tracking force)
- Ensure your turntable is perfectly level (use a bubble level app)
3. Inspect (and Possibly Replace) Your Stylus
A worn or dirty stylus can't track grooves properly. Look for:
- Visible wear or bending under magnification
- Built-up debris (clean gently with a stylus brush)
- More than 500 hours of playtime (most styli need replacing by then)
4. The Weight Trick for Problem Records
Some pressings (especially newer, lightweight vinyl) need extra help:
Try a record weight or clamp: These inexpensive accessories help flatten slight warps and improve tracking. Just don't use them with auto-return turntables.
5. When All Else Fails: The Toothpick Method
For persistent skips in the same spot, you might have a non-fill issue (a manufacturing defect where the groove isn't properly formed). Carefully:
- Identify the exact skip point
- Using a wooden toothpick, gently trace the groove ahead of the skip
- Play through the area - the slight vibration often helps the stylus track properly
Warning: This is a last-resort method. Never use metal tools or apply pressure.
Prevention: Keep Your Records Skip-Free
Stop skips before they start with these habits:
- Store records vertically in proper sleeves
- Keep your stylus clean and replace it regularly
- Always handle records by the edges
- Let your turntable warm up for 10 minutes before critical listening
When to Accept Defeat
Some skips can't be fixed - and that's okay. If you've tried everything and:
- The skip occurs in the exact same spot every time
- You can actually see a scratch or defect in the groove
- It's a cheap record you don't particularly love
...it might be time to replace the copy. For rare records, consider professional ultrasonic cleaning before giving up.
Final Thoughts
Most vinyl skipping issues are fixable with patience and the right approach. Start with cleaning, check your setup, and work through these solutions methodically.
If you're looking for quality pressings less likely to have these issues, browse the carefully selected titles at Hollow Bone Records - we test play every record before listing.