Repairing record players: The 3 most common problems

Repairing a record player doesn’t have to be difficult. Sometimes there are harmless reasons that you can quickly fix yourself. This could be broken

Repairing a record player: here’s how

If the record player breaks down, it doesn’t necessarily have to be disposed of. Sometimes the damage can be repaired in just a few simple steps.

• If the turntable no longer rotates, it could be due to the drive belt. This could have come loose or become porous and torn due to age

• Remove the platter mat and find holes through which you can inspect the belt. If it is actually defective, lift the platter and replace the belt or put it back on.

• If you hear strange noises when playing the record, the record player’s needle may be broken. Check with your fingertip whether you can feel the tip of the needle

• If you cannot feel the tip, you can confirm your suspicion with a magnifying glass. You can purchase and replace a suitable needle on the Internet using the name of your record player.

• Sometimes the capacitors also break. This is noticeable, for example, if the turntable rotates too quickly or even backwards. If you hear a cracking sound or a bang when switching on, this may also be an indication of this.

• These capacitors are located on a circuit board inside the device. To replace them, you will need a soldering iron and some manual dexterity. Otherwise, you can also have the record player repaired by a specialist.