whats wrong with my record player?

Inspect your Stylus (needle) for dust/dirt buildup and, with a camel

hair brush (that's what Sure recommends you use to clean Styli),

carefully remove all foreign matter. With a magnifying glass (or a

microscope) inspect that the stylus is not showing signs of wear.

It should come to a slightly rounded point. Try playing a record that

you know is in good condition. Carefully lower the Stylus into the

trail in groove. It should sound clean just before the program begins.

Most of these turntables are set so there's a pressure of about 1

to 3 grams on the stylus depending on the stylus used. Oh, as far

as taking care of your records, you can use Windhex and a lint-free

cloth. Clean them in the direction of the grooves. 45's & LP records

can provide many years of good service if they are handled by their

edges, kept clean and in their original sleeves. Vinyl is making a

big comeback as big stores like Wally World are carrying new Turn

Tables that can connect to a computer. I still like the 'Old School'

equipment, personally. If you need a new stylus, you can try Radio

Shaft. Call first. Feel free to e-me. Rock on, Brother!

The weight adjustment on record player head was to light. Add more weight by turning the screw somewhere under the arm. Also change the needle, it is no more useful after scratch record like this.

Could be any of the following : stylus missing, stylus not aligned in the cartridge, needle broken off of the stylus, unbalanced tone arm. A replacement stylus for that model is still available, failing that you can get a complete replacement cartridge. There's a troubleshooting guide for turntables in general at http://dual-reference.com/Troubles/troublemain.htm

The record player tracking and force adjustments need to be correct for the needle that you are using. Check the instructions. If that doesn't fix it, it could be that your needle is worn out.