Turntable Mat on Realistic Lab 440 Hard as a Rock

[MCM_Fan]

The original turntable mat on my Realistic Lab 440 is hard as a rock - ok, maybe not quite that hard, but it feels more like a hard plastic than the typical rubber mat. It was this way when I got it.

So, Lab 440 owners, is this how it came from the factory? Do they turn hard over time? Should I look to replace it?

 

[Montycat]

They do that sometimes. The rubber (or synthetic compound that looks like rubber) dries out or leaches oils. Sometimes you will find oily deposits under a mat and/or the mat gets hard enough to crack.

You can still use it if you like, or replace it. Cork or leather can make good substitutes and there are aftermarket types available.

 

[likebike23]

That's definitely not the way they came. I have a 440 and the mat is floppy rubber. I'd say replace yours.

 

[jleon92f]

Replace it before it ruins your records..