Vinyl is a mechanical playback format. Unlike digital audio, performance can vary depending on the turntable, setup, and how the record was mastered.
If your record skips, here’s what to know.
Why Can Vinyl Records Skip?
When a vinyl record is mastered, the engineer must balance loudness and groove movement.
Cutting a record louder improves signal-to-noise ratio, but it also creates grooves that move the stylus more aggressively. On lower-cost turntables (often under $100), this can increase the likelihood of skipping — especially on loud passages or audio with strong stereo content.
Reducing the level too much avoids skipping but increases surface noise, which negatively affects playback on higher-quality systems.
At elasticStage, we aim to strike a balance between loudness and stability. Our manufacturing process allows for lower surface noise than traditional vinyl, meaning we can cut records slightly quieter while maintaining strong audio quality.
However, very low-cost turntables may still struggle with certain recordings.
Turntable Setup Matters
Skipping is often related to playback equipment rather than a manufacturing fault.
Common causes include:
Incorrect tracking weight (too light)
Incorrect anti-skate settings
Worn or damaged stylus
Dust on the stylus or record
Very lightweight tonearms (common on entry-level turntables)
Some budget turntables do not allow proper adjustment of tracking force or anti-skate. These models are more prone to skipping with modern vinyl cuts.
A good quality turntable (typically starting around $200) will generally provide more stable playback.
Before Reporting a Fault
We recommend checking:
Do other records skip in the same way?
Is your stylus clean and undamaged?
Is your tracking weight set correctly?
Is your turntable placed on a stable, vibration-free surface?
If other records also skip, the issue is likely related to the turntable setup rather than the vinyl itself.
What If I Believe My Record Is Faulty?
If you believe your record has a manufacturing defect, please contact our support team and include: Each vinyl record is manufactured on demand, and cases are handled individually to ensure accurate resolution.
Your order number
A short video demonstrating the issue
The make and model of your turntable
Barcode (EAN/UPC)
Specific details about the defect (e.g., affected tracks, sides)
A concise written description of the issue
The Elasticstage team will investigate the provided details and evidence to verify the defect. For verified defects, replacement copies will be arranged, which undergo quality checks by the audio team before shipping to ensure the issue is resolved. Please note that refunds are not issued for all purchasers based on a general defect report; each case is handled individually, and affected orders are addressed accordingly.