Record Player Skipping? Fix It in Minutes

Published July 29, 2026 · Reviewed by the Unbiased Advice & Insights editorial team · How we research and score

Why Your Record Player Skips

Record skipping is frustrating, but it's rarely a sign that your turntable is broken. Most skips happen because the stylus cannot stay in the groove. The most common reasons are dust or debris on the record or stylus, incorrect tracking force, anti-skate settings that are off, a warped or scratched record, or a worn stylus. Less often, the turntable may not be level, or the cartridge may be misaligned. Understanding the cause is the first step to a fix.

How to Fix a Skipping Turntable: Step by Step

Follow these steps in order. Most fixes are simple and require no special tools beyond a tracking force gauge (or the built-in scale on some turntables) and a stylus brush.

1. Clean the Stylus and Record. Dust is the #1 cause of skips. Use a carbon fiber brush to clean the record before each play. For the stylus, use a stylus brush and a drop of cleaning fluid. Gently brush from back to front. Never touch the stylus tip with your fingers.
2. Check the Turntable Level. Place a bubble level on the platter. Adjust the turntable's feet so it is perfectly level front-to-back and side-to-side. An unlevel turntable can cause the tonearm to drift and skip.
3. Set Tracking Force Correctly. First, balance the tonearm: set the counterweight so the tonearm floats parallel to the platter. Then rotate the numbered dial (without moving the weight) to zero. Finally, turn the counterweight to the recommended tracking force for your cartridge (usually 1.5-2.5 grams). Use a tracking force gauge to verify.
4. Adjust Anti-Skate. Set anti-skate to the same value as tracking force. If skipping persists, try a slightly higher anti-skate setting. Some turntables require fine-tuning by ear.
5. Examine the Record for Warps or Scratches. Hold the record at eye level and look across the surface. A slight warp is normal, but a severe warp can cause the stylus to jump. Scratches that are deep or run parallel to the grooves will cause skips. If the record is warped, try a record weight or clamp (if your turntable supports it). For scratches, the record may be unplayable at that spot.
6. Inspect the Stylus and Cantilever. Use a magnifying loupe. If the stylus tip is worn flat or chipped, or if the cantilever is bent, replace the stylus. A worn stylus cannot track properly and will skip even on clean records.
7. Check Cartridge Alignment. Misalignment can cause skipping, especially on inner grooves. Use an alignment protractor to ensure the cartridge is correctly positioned. This is more advanced; if you're not comfortable, consult a professional.

When to Replace Your Stylus or Turntable

If you've tried all the above and skipping continues, the stylus may be worn out. Stylus life varies, but typically 500-1000 hours of play. If you can't remember the last time you replaced it, do so. A new stylus often solves skipping issues. If the turntable itself has mechanical problems (worn bearings, loose tonearm, motor issues), it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire turntable rather than repair it. Entry-level turntables like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X or the Victrola VPRO-2000 are affordable and reliable. For higher-end models, consider a professional service.

Proper Setup and Maintenance Tips

Prevention is better than cure. Always handle records by the edges and inner label. Store records upright in a cool, dry place. Clean records before each play with a carbon fiber brush. Deep clean records periodically with a record cleaning machine or a microfiber cloth and distilled water. Replace your stylus every 500-1000 hours. Keep your turntable covered when not in use to prevent dust buildup. Check tracking force and anti-skate every few months, especially if you move the turntable. With proper care, your turntable will provide years of skip-free enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my record skip only on certain songs?

If skipping happens only on certain passages, the record may have a scratch, pressing defect, or warp. Inspect the groove under bright light. Dust or static can also cause intermittent skips. Try cleaning the record and anti-static brush. If the skip is always at the same spot, the record is likely damaged.

Can a bad stylus cause skipping?

Yes. A worn, bent, or dirty stylus can skip because it cannot track the groove properly. Check the stylus tip with a magnifier. If it's worn flat or has a bent cantilever, replace it. A dirty stylus can be cleaned with a stylus brush and cleaning fluid. Regular stylus replacement (every 500-1000 hours) prevents skipping.

Is it safe to add weight to the tonearm to stop skipping?

Adding extra weight beyond the recommended tracking force can damage your records and cause excessive wear. Instead, set the tracking force correctly using a scale. If skipping persists, check anti-skate, turntable level, and cartridge alignment. Only as a last resort consider a slightly higher force within the cartridge's range.

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