Clearaudio – Cartridge “Break-In” Test Record (180g LP)

This cartridge break-in LP plays an endless groove cut with pink noise to significantly reduce the length of the break-in period. A total of twelve continuous pink noise tracks are provided, 6 per side, at various positions on the record. In addition to the continuous cartridge break-in tracks, several other tracks are included to aid in the properly setting up the cartridge, arm and turntable, as well as other important aspects of a hifi system. The record is pressed on 180g vinyl.

Phono cartridges usually need a running-in period to reach their full potential. This can take anywhere from 40 to 100 hours, depending upon the manufacturer, design and construction of the phono cartridge. This Clearaudio Cartridge Break-In Record is a unique tool. Playing an endless groove cut with pink noise significantly reduces the length of the break-in period.

Six continuous pink noise tracks are provided at various positions on the record (track numbers are 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11). To enable frequency response measurement of the phono cartridge, track 3 comprises a sine-wave frequency sweep from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

There are two separate 240-second tracks containing a pink noise signal for measuring and testing the set-up of the whole system. Tracks 4 and 13 are recorded with no signal to test the noise floor of the entire hi-fi system.

Finally, tracks 8 and 12 contain a special signal to optimize and adjust the anti-skating force. Both channels are recorded with a 316 Hz sine-wave with continually changing phase difference from 0 to 360 deg, so that the stylus movement repeatedly changes from lateral to vertical and back again. The signal level changes accordingly from -22 dB to +8 dB, corresponding to a maximum velocity of 9.81 cm/s or a maximum displacement of 50 lm, horizontally or vertically.

ID: Clearaudio – BIN 70904