The Best Record Flattener Machines

If you’re an audiophile or vinyl collector, you already know that warped records can ruin your listening experience. If you don’t own a record flattener machine, you’re likely missing out on fully enjoying some of your favorite albums.

 

You might suspect you have a warped vinyl record. In many cases, you can learn how to tell if a vinyl record is warped just by looking at it (or by listening). If the audio sounds distorted or uneven, it’s often a sign the record isn’t flat.

 

So, how do you fix a warped vinyl record? There are a few different approaches. In this post, we’ll focus on using a vinyl record flattener, and we’ll compare three popular disc flattener machines so you can choose the one that fits your needs.

 

Before you use any flattener, always clean your vinyl. Dust and buildup can affect performance and sound quality—even during the flattening process. If your record isn’t clean, it can get damaged or sound worse after heating.

 

There are different cleaning methods, but the safest option is to gently wipe the surface with a lint-free cloth. For tougher spots, use a vinyl-safe cleaning solution and follow the directions on the bottle carefully.

 

Once your record is clean, you’re ready to try one of the available vinyl flattener tools or machines.

 

All record flatteners work using the same principle: vinyl becomes slightly flexible when gently heated and pressed. By using low heat and even pressure, these tools restore the record’s shape. However, each model works a little differently, so we’ll walk you through the top options in this guide.

 

Furutech LP Flattener DF-2

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This is a Japanese-made high-end disc machine that promises better heat control than its predecessor, the DFV-1. Furutech is based in Tokyo and has years of experience making audio accessories.

 

Their flattener machine operates much like a clamshell, with the record placed inside and the machine closed before being turned on. There are different heating times available, from one hour to 2.5 hours, with 1.5 hours being the standard. After heating is complete, the machine goes into a cooling period for two hours.

 

This is a one-button machine, very easy to operate. So what's the downside? It can be very expensive for the regular collector. Prices for the DF-2 range from $3000-$3500 in the United States. This video shows how to use the Furutech LP Flattener DF-2.

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ORB DF-01A

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The ORB is a one-stop flattener machine that gets the job done quickly and efficiently. It's made by ORB, a Japanese company that develops and manufactures audio accessories.

 

Unlike the Furutech, the ORB's high-end device has different modes for temperature but not time. You can switch between low, medium, and high heat. But the time cycle is flat at 2 hours of heating and 2 hours of cooling. The ORB machine is designed for 12'' disc size, but can be easily adapted to 7'', and 10'' sizes.

 

Similar to the Furutech, this machine comes with a high price tag. You can find it for $1,000-$1,500 in the United States. Watch this video for additional insights.

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The Vinyl Flat

The more affordable option of the bunch. They also offer a heating element The Groovy Pouch.

 

This machine is made in the USA and it's also easy and efficient to use. The Groovy Pouch comes with 3 settings for temperature, low, medium, and high. But the time is controlled manually by turning on and off the device. This allows for additional flexibility.

 

The Vinyl Flat also comes with groovy rings for 7'', 10'', and 12'' making it compatible with all standard vinyl sizes.

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After the de-warping process, you can go ahead and play your record again.

 

Don't forget to protect it from future damage by storing it correctly. The best way to store records is to do it vertically in the original sleeve and cover. This will help to keep dust and other contaminants off of the record and minimize any points of pressure. With proper care, your vinyl records should last for many years.

 

Conclusion: When it comes to choosing a record flattener machine, there are a few things you need to take into consideration such as price, features, and reviews. So there you have it! Three different record flattener machines are compared side by side.

 

Which one is right for you? That decision is ultimately up to you, but we hope this blog post has given you a better idea of what's out there and aided you in making a decision about which machine is right for you! Happy flattening!