Locus Design
The DampClamp
The DampClamp is the only record clamp that we are aware of that utilizes true constrained layer damping.
This innovative record weight/clamp utilizes two precision CNC milled billet aluminum pieces separated by a layer of IsoDamp material.
Put simply, the way we implement constrained layer damping is the use of two similar materials which sandwich a viscoelastic compound. A viscoelastic compound (a material that exhibits the properties of a viscous fluid and an elastic solid), when sandwiched between two milled pieces of aluminum as we do, allows the viscoelastic compound to shear, which consumes energy which is then dissipated as heat.
The design of the Dampclamp has been thoroughly thought out and designed to allow the viscoelastic layer to shear and work as effectively as possible. Everything, from the weight and size of the aluminum discs, to the way it is CNC milled, to the thickness and durometer of the viscoelastic layer (which is generally used on the hulls of nuclear submarines) has been carefully designed to work together to dissipate any micro-vibrations (energy) caused by the platter, stylus, or motor of the turntable system.
As implemented, the DampClamp will remove most of the spurious noise generated by the workings of the turntable, resulting in the music on your precious vinyl to emerge from a background of silence unlike any you have experienced before.
Before purchasing, please check with the manufacturer of your TT to ensure that the bearing, motor and suspension are up to the challenge of the DampClamp. If they are, you are in for a rare treat.
The weight is designed to cover most of the record label, maximizing the effectiveness of the weight, and, in our opinion, offering a better sound than smaller weights. This design does require that one lifts the arm before it reaches the outer edge of the run-out groove so that your headshell doesn't potentially hit the weight, but this is a small price to pay for the sonic benefits.
If your TT has an unusually (non-standard) tall spindle, the DampClamp may not sit all the way on the record without the use of a record mat. Email us with the height of your spindle and we can check it for you.
A side benefit resulting due to the weight of the clamp, ~1.7lbs, is that it also helps to couple the record to the mat, allowing more intimate groove/stylus contact.
In addition to the technology employed, the DampClamp is a stunning mechanical design, which truly is a piece of industrial art. The quality of the mill work really has to be seen to be believed. The machine shop that we partner with is known for their exceptional quality work, usually doing work for the medical industry which requires tolerances as close as ten thousandths of an inch. In addition, they have developed a very unique way of milling the "face" of the aluminum which puts a very interesting and fantastic looking finish on the metal, allowing the weight to catch the light and produce some very beautiful optical effects.
Simply put, we feel that this is the finest record clamp/weight available.
Specifications:
Weight-~1.7lbs (771.11g)
Diameter-3.6" (9.14cm)
Height-1.55" (3.94cm), +/- .02" (.05cm) due to the slight variance in compression of the damping material
Spindle Hole Diameter-.286" (.726cm)
For more information on how we utilize constrained layer damping, click here: Damping Info Here!
To order the DampClamp, click the obvious.
Price is $399. Free shipping anywhere in the continental United States. To our valued customers outside of these areas, please e-mail us for shipping charges and a link to our international payment page.
If you reside in Great Britain, or countries of the EU, please contact Angelsound Audio to order.