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DARKSIDE RECORDS

VINYL CARE

Keep Your Vinyl Collection Looking and Sounding Its Best

How Often Should I Clean My Records?

A little maintenance goes a long way. Before each play, a quick pass with a carbon fiber brush helps remove dust and cut down on static. If a record starts looking grimy, sounds noisier than usual, or you picked it up used, it's probably time for a deeper clean with a record cleaning solution or cleaning kit.

You don't need to deep clean every record before every spin. Just keep them stored properly, handle them by the edges, and give them a thorough cleaning when they actually need it. Your stylus—and your ears—will thank you.


What's the Difference Between Inner and Outer Sleeves?

Think of them as protection for two different parts of your collection.

Inner sleeves protect the vinyl itself from dust, static, and scratches. Upgrading from old paper sleeves to anti-static polyethylene sleeves is one of the easiest ways to keep your records in great shape.

Outer sleeves protect the album jacket from shelf wear, ring wear, fingerprints, and everyday handling.


How should I store my records?

Your records should always be stored standing upright, like books on a shelf or birds on a wire. Laying records flat for long periods of time can put unnecessary pressure on both the records and their jackets, which over time may lead to dishwarped records and curved jackets.

Once they're clean & sleeved, keep your records snug enough on your shelf that they stay upright, but not packed so tightly that they're difficult to pull out - this can lead to ringwear from the pressure of the records pushing against each other.

Too much of a lean isn't good either. A shelf that's filled just enough to keep records standing straight will help your collection stay organized. If there's not enough to stay upright, sounds like it's time to buy some more records, eh?


What's the deal with record weights & clamps?

A record weight can help keep records flatter against the platter, which can help improve tracking, reduce unwanted vibration, and improve the depth of playback.

Record weights are a nice upgrade rather than an essential accessory. In the pursuit of finding your perfect playback, working your way through all the options and choices available can be daunting. We're always available to answer questions and offer advice that work with your gear.

Everyone's setup and preferences are of course differrent, and no two are exactly alike. Building your system is part of the fun—small upgrades and accessories are what makes your setup yours, and help define the sound you're looking for.