Record weights 'n clamps: Audible improvements ?

I have KAB's older rubber record grip (since replaced by this one), and for the $29.95 I paid, it lowers surface noise, reduces record slippage (better pace, tempo, and transients), and makes really thin pressings such as RCA Dynaflex records sound just like full weight LPs.

IMO record weights and clamps would have different but overlapping effects. A record grip like I have absorbs vibrations coming up the spindle, clamps the record to the mat, and absorbs resonances from the record itself. It also has the advantage that you don't have to adjust the loading of a suspended turntable.

A record weight would do similar things, but the mass of it changes the resonant frequencies of the mechanical aspects of the playback. This could be for better or worse, or for both.

Then there are the ones simply designed for resonance control, that neither clamp nor add a lot of weight, such as the Herbie's Supersonic Record Stabilizer.

Don't know about weights but screwing the clamp on my VPI table on and off every 20 minutes drives me crazy. Lately I just use it on really warped records. I don't notice much difference on most records anyway.

It took me 30 seconds with a friends clamp to decide that it is worth every penny!

The VPI HRX clamp and ring are easy to use (other than having a place to put the outer ring while changing LP's/sides)
Warped records are no longer an issue.

A_L

I agree with Arnold Layne above. I just got a VPI Classic with the clamp and ring, and it really is a joy to use the combo. I even get a bit of a "workout" changing sides, so what the heck! Seriously, have not a/b'd between using them and not using them, but I think they level and smooth everything out, and add even a bit more mass to the platter, which I think is a good thing for the Classic. Jrb25, you should get the HRX weight--you don't have to screw and unscrew the weight. Probably worth the $$ to spare that aggravation.