I use the Groovetracer record weight which seems to correct slightly warped LPs. If they are more warped. . . I don't play them.

There are also periphery clamps like the VPI or the Wayne's Audio. I haven't used on but have looked the Wayne's for a while as they are supposed to also help keep speeds stable and somehow make the sound better.

I would just trash it or return. Never tried to flatten one. I have a weight on my VPI turntable that really would not do much for flattening a warped record. I've experienced warped records that tracked just fine but the pitch would change over the hill.

Kamran, I probably could have articulated better. I usually use a record weight to couple the record to the platter, for normal use. If I get a record that is significantly edge warped, it goes back for an exchange. If it is dish warped, or a very minor edge warp, I’ll use a clamp. I use a thin, about 1.5mm thick neoprene washer. Home Depot has a 5/8 x 2 inch neoprene washer (5/8 x 1 inch would work best if you can find it, but I cut the outer edge to about 1” diameter. 5/8” will fit over the spindle). I got a Mitchell clamp knockoff on eBay that works well. You’d put the washer on the platter, under the record and the clamp can push down around it to flatten the warp. I’d love to have one of those VPI periphery rings, but then I think of all the records I could buy instead.

Vijay, I actually got the Michell Clamp (it was listed for $80 so not sure if it's the real deal) but two things happened.

1) I realized after some trial and error that I couldn't use it with my stack audio mat.

2) I then lost the plastic washer (looks they also at some point had a felt version of the same washer) behind my rack and that damn thing is so small that I will have to disconnect a lot of equipment to get back there and hunt for it using a magnifying glass.

One of these days, I will either get off my lazy bum and look for it or buy a replacement. I am actually surprised nobody has yet mentioned the SOTA Reflex clamp, which apparently has rave reviews.  I've been eying that recently.

I hear what you say about investing money in records vs. tools. As Vinyl is becoming more of a focus since this summer, I am having the same predicament now.

JHC: I should add that Wayne's Audio periphery clamp on to my original options list.  Thx--that was not on my radar.  That said, it looks a bit cumbersome to use and  some of my records have minor warps at best.

I didn’t realize you already had the Mitchell clamp. Sorry for my pedantic explanation then! The SOTA Reflex Clamp looks slick. It wasn’t on my radar years ago, when I was looking. Looks like a great solution.

Maybe off topic, but I’m curious how you like the Serene Mat and if you notice improvement. Are you using the stabilizer/weight as well? My table has a Delrin platter and with the Mofi Super Heavyweight, does pretty well with vibration control. They recommend not using a mat with this setup, but I’m always curious. The Auva EQ’s have been working well for me, so I’d imagine their turntable products are very well engineered, as well.

The gymnastics you all go through to listen to hiss and clicks!

Sorry I am not a believer in the church of vinyl.
Excommunicate me, shun me, burn me at the stake!!

LiquidBlue wrote on Yesterday at 22:43:27:

I am using the Delrin platter from Groovetracer, and the Groovetracer weight as well, without a mat. I tried it with the Herbie's Audio mat. . . and prefer it without. Handles most any record except truly warped ones.