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The action of the clamp system is to provide uniform compression of the record at the
outer edge of the label area. First, the periphery of the record is forced into contact with
the platter. Then, the rest of the grooved area is pushed into contact.
ADDITIONAL TIPS
Keep the platter scrupulously clean. Since no mat is used on the JR, any dirt can easily
be transferred to the record—especially since the clamp holds the record down under
pressure.
We recommend that the dust cover be off when playing records. Under most
circumstances this will result in cleaner sound since the cover acts as a “sail” catching
acoustic feedback.
However, when the turntable is not in use, having the dust cover on is strongly
recommended. Remember that it is very important that the platter be kept clean so that
dirt is not transferred to the record.
In choosing a location for your JR, bare in mind that wall mounting is generally
preferred. Placing the turntable on a shelf mounted on a sturdy wall is usually the best
way to isolate the turntable from footfalls and other shock and vibration. Alternatively,
one of the steel and lead turntable stands may be used if the floor is firm and does not
bounce when you walk. There are a number of stands on the market and your dealer will
be able to advise you concerning which ones meet your particular requirements.
If the MK-3 must be placed on a piece of furniture or in an equipment cabinet which is
not perfectly stable, things can be improved by wedging something reasonably hard
between the furniture or cabinet and the wall against which it is placed. Please be aware
that doing so may mar the wall and /or the back of the piece of furniture or cabinet.
Under most circumstances, you will then be able to walk around while a record is playing
with out the arm hopping around.
Use of the VPI SDS is strongly recommended (Commercial Message!). It is our
experience that a couple of benefits are derived. First, the SDS isolates the turntable’s
motor from the incoming electric line providing ultra-stable line voltage and frequency.
This results in cleaner overall sound. The second benefit is that the SDS allows fine pitch
control. Varying the line frequency control on its front panel varies the MK-3 motor’s
speed.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS
Hum—A low buzzing or humming sound heard whenever the amplifier or receiver is
switched to, “phono”, varies with the volume control setting, and is heard when no
record is being played. If hum is heard only when playing a record, the hum is recorded
on the record. This is actually a cartridge/arm/turntable problem. Usually all that is
needed to eliminate the hum is to run a ground wire from the turntable chassis to the
chassis of the amplifier or receiver. Simply attach a suitable length of thin, flexible wire
(test probe wire is ideal) to any convenient screw on the underside of the JR chassis.
Connect the other end to the ground connector on the amplifier or receiver (if in doubt,
check the amplifier or receiver’s manual or call its manufacturer).
Depending upon the tonearm you are using, it may also be possible to run a short wire
from the turntable chassis to the arm’s ground connection under the arm board. If this
does not cure the hum, disconnect the short wire and run a separate ground wire as above.
