Properly packing your Audio Technica turntable is essential to protect it from damage during moving or shipping. Following these steps ensures your valuable audio equipment arrives at its destination in pristine condition.
Essential Pre-Packing Steps
Before you begin, gather all necessary packing materials. It's highly recommended to use the original packaging if you still have it, as it's designed specifically for your turntable's dimensions and components. If not, acquire a sturdy, appropriately sized box, plenty of cushioning materials, and strong packing tape.
Here's a detailed breakdown of how to prepare your turntable for packing:
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Remove Accessories:
- Carefully remove the 45 rpm adapter from the platter if it's currently on the turntable.
- If your model has a separate counterweight, remove it from the tonearm.
- Detach any cables (power, RCA, USB) from the turntable. Coil them neatly and secure them with twist ties or velcro straps.
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Secure the Stylus and Tonearm:
- Fit the stylus guard securely over the stylus to protect the delicate needle from bending or breaking. If it's already on, ensure it's firmly in place.
- Gently place the tonearm back into its rest clip.
- Secure the tonearm further by using a wire bag tie or a small piece of painter's tape to prevent it from bouncing or swinging during transit. This is a crucial step to safeguard the tonearm and cartridge assembly.
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Handle the Platter and Mat:
- If your turntable model allows for platter removal (many do, especially higher-end models), carefully lift off the platter.
- Remove the felt mat from the platter.
- Wrap the platter and mat separately in bubble wrap or foam sheeting.
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Protect the Dust Cover:
- If your turntable has an integrated dust cover that remains attached, place a protective bag (such as a large plastic bag or a custom dust cover bag) over the dust cover and close it securely. This prevents scratches and keeps dust out.
- If the dust cover is removable, take it off and wrap it separately in several layers of bubble wrap.
Step-by-Step Packing Process
Once all components are prepared, you can begin packing:
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Prepare the Box:
- Line the bottom of your packing box with at least 2-3 inches of cushioning material (e.g., foam, bubble wrap, packing peanuts).
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Pack the Turntable Body:
- Place the turntable body, which should now be secured as described above, into a large protective anti-static bag or wrapped in a soft cloth or bubble wrap.
- Carefully lower the turntable body into the center of the box, ensuring it sits firmly on the base cushioning.
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Arrange Separate Components:
- Place wrapped platter, mat, counterweight, cables, and 45 rpm adapter into the box around the turntable. Use soft packing materials or small individual boxes to keep them from shifting and protect the turntable itself.
- Ensure there's no direct contact between the turntable body and any hard accessories.
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Add Top Cushioning:
- Fill all remaining empty spaces in the box with additional cushioning material. The turntable and its components should not be able to move or shift when the box is gently shaken.
- Add a final layer of cushioning on top, ensuring at least 2-3 inches of material above the highest point of the turntable.
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Seal and Label:
- Seal the box securely with heavy-duty packing tape, using the H-taping method (across all seams).
- Clearly label the box with "FRAGILE," "THIS SIDE UP," and "ELECTRONICS." Include your shipping address and return address clearly.
General Packing Tips for Audio Technica Gear
| Component | Packing Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turntable Body | Wrapped in anti-static bag/bubble wrap, secured tonearm, stylus guard in place. | Ensure no movement within the box. |
| Platter & Mat | Wrapped separately in bubble wrap or foam sheeting. | Prevent scratching or bending. |
| Dust Cover | Protected with a bag (if attached) or wrapped in bubble wrap (if removed). | Especially prone to scratches and cracks. |
| Cartridge/Stylus | Stylus guard must be fitted. Handle with extreme care. | The most delicate part; often the most expensive to replace. |
| Cables/Adapters | Coiled, secured, and placed in a small bag or wrapped to prevent tangling. | Prevents loss and damage to connectors. |
| Counterweight | Removed and wrapped separately. | Prevents stress on the tonearm. |
| Original Packaging | Always use if available, as it's custom-fitted with dedicated compartments. | The safest option for transit. |
For specific models and their unique components, always refer to your turntable's official user manual, often available on the Audio-Technica website.
