I just received an LPDOCK turntable for Xmas so I can Convert my LP's to .WAV on my PC then clean up the clicks & crackle using Adobe Audition 3My problem is the speed on the turntable when playing at 33rpm is inconsistant and therefore affects the pitch which in turn gives a warbeling affect.You would be forgiven in thinking it was a worn drive belt but the product is brand new.
PS it also does the same when playing 45's @ 45rpm
Has anyone experienced this issue with this product ???/
Audible speed warbling, especially on things like piano or flute, is not uncommon on low quality turn tables such as produced by Ion. Therefor, it's hard to know if this is unusual behavior for your unit or not. A new turn table, at minimum, for any level of good quality, will cost at least $450(Technics SL-1200MKII for example). Turn tables, being of mechanical nature, are far more critical of construction/engineering quality and resulting sound quality as compared to a CD player. However, you can buy 80's ear turn tables of high quality for under $100 used, that will be sufficient. Some examples being Technics SL-Q2, SL-Q3, SL-1400MKII, SL-1500MKII. These have no similarity to the Ion. Every part, from the chassis to tonearm to motor/drive system is far better engineered.
You must also purchase an acceptable quality cartridge that has acceptable flat response, excellent tracking(many cartridges at lower price have tracking problems, especially in the inner groove and on difficult tracks) and low distortion. The lowest cost cartridge that is acceptable for archiving from an objective/measurable stand point is the Audio Technica AT440ML. It is about $80-90 USD. This cartridge is actually superior, objectively, to most that cost several times it's price. It's only single fault is a slight treble rise.
I'm afraid no matter how I try to describe this, I will come off as a jerk that is downing your table. But I am only telling you how it is from an objective performance stand point. Personally, I would not even try to play a cherished record on that Ion. I would wager it is causing severe damage with even one play. It probably has a very high tracking mass and a crude stylus that more closely resembles a cutting tool as opposed to a precision pick up/reading instrument. Return the table if possible. Buy a used unit of the models I recommended. There are other worth models, but I listed some of the ones you will get the best value on, that have the best construction and performance, for a very low price. These were actually expensive in the 80's, but they did not hold value in the used market - and this is to your advantage now.
-Chris
