Audio T Verdict
The Pro-Ject Clamp it is a clever alternative to simply putting a heavy metal puck on top of a record. Rather than relying on mass, it grips the turntable spindle and allows you to apply a controlled amount of downward pressure, helping couple the record more firmly to the platter without placing unnecessary additional load on the main bearing.
That approach is particularly useful when dealing with records that are not perfectly flat. A small amount of pressure can help improve contact between the vinyl and platter, while the adjustment mechanism lets you decide how much clamping force is appropriate rather than relying on a fixed weight.
At only 120g it is relatively lightweight, beautifully machined and very easy to fit. If you want to experiment with better record-to-platter coupling without moving to a heavyweight record puck, Clamp it is one of Pro-Ject's simplest turntable upgrades.
Pro-Ject Clamp it Aluminium Record Clamp
The Pro-Ject Clamp it is a precision-machined aluminium record clamp designed to hold a playing record securely against the turntable platter.
Instead of using high mass to press the record down, Clamp it grips around the centre spindle and uses adjustable mechanical pressure. This provides a secure connection between the vinyl and platter while keeping the total weight to just 120g.
- Lightweight aluminium record clamp
- 120g total weight
- Clamps around the centre spindle
- Adjustable downward pressure
- Fine adjustment for records with varying degrees of warp
- Helps couple the record firmly to the platter
- Designed to reduce unwanted record/platter resonances
- Does not rely on high mass
- Suitable for threaded platter spindles
- Suitable for smooth platter spindles
- Full aluminium construction
- Leather contact surface protects the record label
- Diamond-cut edges
- Fast manual fitting and removal
- 78mm diameter
- 33mm height
- Produced in Europe
What Does a Record Clamp Do?
A record clamp is designed to improve the physical connection between the record and the turntable platter while the record is playing.
Vinyl records are not always completely flat. Small variations in shape, minor warping and areas where the record does not sit tightly against the platter can reduce the consistency of that contact.
Clamp it applies controlled pressure around the centre spindle, helping hold the vinyl more securely against the playing surface.
Record-to-Platter Contact
A turntable platter provides the physical support for the record while it rotates.
Pro-Ject's design philosophy behind Clamp it is that the two surfaces should be coupled as closely as practical so unwanted movement and resonances between the vinyl and platter are reduced.
Rather than leaving the record resting entirely under its own weight, Clamp it provides an additional mechanical connection at the centre.
Designed to Reduce Unwanted Resonances
Pro-Ject developed Clamp it to reduce unwanted resonance between the record and platter during playback.
If portions of the vinyl are not sitting securely against the platter, the record can behave less like part of the platter system and more like a separate vibrating surface.
Clamping the two together more firmly is intended to create a more stable mechanical relationship between them.
Useful With Records That Are Not Perfectly Flat
Not every record comes out of its sleeve completely flat.
Some records have a slight dish or warp, either from manufacture or as a result of storage over time.
Pro-Ject specifically allows the pressure of Clamp it to be adjusted according to the condition of the record, and its manual notes that a small amount of downward pressure may help flatten some warped records during playback.
A Clamp Does Not Repair a Warped Record
Clamp it may help some records sit more securely against the platter while they are being played, but it does not permanently remove or repair a warp. Severely warped or damaged records may remain unsuitable for normal playback.
Fine-Adjustable Clamping Pressure
Unlike a record weight, which always applies the same downward force, Clamp it allows the user to control the amount of pressure applied.
Once positioned over the spindle, the top knob is turned clockwise until the clamp is snug.
If the record requires a little additional pressure to improve contact with the platter, this can be applied gently before securing the mechanism.
Snug, Not Excessively Tight
Pro-Ject specifically warns against overtightening Clamp it. The objective is to hold the record securely against the platter, not apply the maximum amount of force the mechanism can generate.
How Does Clamp it Attach?
The internal clamp mechanism grips around the turntable's centre spindle.
This means the accessory does not require the spindle itself to have a screw thread.
Pro-Ject specifies Clamp it for both smooth and threaded platter spindles.
Works With Smooth Spindles
Many conventional turntables use a simple smooth centre spindle.
Clamp it does not need a threaded spindle because its mechanism tightens around the outside of the spindle itself.
This gives it much broader compatibility than record clamps designed specifically to screw onto a matching threaded turntable spindle.
Works With Threaded Spindles
The same internal mechanism can also grip a threaded platter spindle.
You do not need to use the turntable's spindle thread to install Clamp it; the clamp secures around the spindle instead.
Fast Installation
Clamp it does not require permanent modification to the turntable.
It can be fitted after placing the record on the platter and removed again before changing records.
Pro-Ject describes installation as taking only a matter of seconds.
How to Fit Pro-Ject Clamp it
The current Pro-Ject manual gives a simple three-stage process:
- Make sure the screw cap is loose.
- Press the screw cap down to unlock the internal clamp mechanism.
- Place the record onto the turntable platter.
- Lower Clamp it over the centre spindle.
- Apply a small amount of downward pressure if required.
- Turn the top knob clockwise until Clamp it is snug.
- Do not overtighten.
- Play the record normally.
How to Remove Clamp it
Removal is just as straightforward:
- Stop the turntable.
- Turn the Clamp it knob counter-clockwise.
- Continue until the clamp mechanism releases from the spindle.
- Lift Clamp it vertically away from the record.
- Remove or turn over the record as normal.
Stop the Turntable Before Fitting or Removing the Clamp
Fit and remove Clamp it while the platter is stationary. There is no reason to work around the centre spindle while the record and clamp are rotating.
Why Not Just Use a Heavy Record Puck?
Record pucks and record clamps ultimately aim to achieve a similar result: holding the record more securely against the platter.
They go about it in different ways.
Record Clamp
- Uses mechanical clamping force
- Grips the centre spindle
- Pressure can be adjusted
- Does not need high mass
- Clamp it weighs only 120g
- Useful where bearing load is a consideration
Record Puck
- Uses its own mass
- Sits over the centre spindle
- Downward force is fixed by weight
- Can weigh several hundred grams
- Very quick to place and remove
- Turntable compatibility should be considered
Only 120g
Clamp it weighs just 120g.
That low mass is deliberate. The pressure holding the record against the platter comes primarily from the clamp mechanism rather than from the accessory simply being heavy.
This makes Clamp it particularly interesting where you want improved record-to-platter coupling without adding a large amount of extra mass to the main bearing.
Why Main-Bearing Load Matters
The platter, sub-platter and record are all supported by the turntable's main bearing.
Adding a heavyweight puck increases the mass that this bearing must carry while the turntable is operating.
Pro-Ject specifically argues that very heavy record pucks can increase rumble on less substantial turntable bearings, which is why Clamp it uses mechanical pressure instead of relying on a high mass.
Clamp or Puck?
There is no single accessory that is automatically right for every turntable. Heavy record pucks can work very well on turntables designed to accommodate them, while Clamp it provides a lightweight alternative where adjustable clamping pressure is preferable.
Avoiding the 'Bowl' Effect
Pro-Ject also highlights another potential issue with applying a large fixed weight only at the centre of some records.
Depending on the shape of a warped record, excessive centre pressure can sometimes encourage the outer edge to lift rather than improving overall contact with the platter.
Clamp it allows the amount of pressure to be controlled rather than determined entirely by the mass of the accessory.
Leather Record-Label Protection
The underside of Clamp it incorporates a leather contact surface.
This provides a softer interface between the metal clamp and the centre-label area of the record.
Pro-Ject specifically describes the leather pad as protecting the record label while the clamp is fitted.
Full Aluminium Construction
The main body of Clamp it is machined from aluminium.
This allows Pro-Ject to create a rigid metal clamp while keeping weight down to 120g.
The result feels considerably more substantial than a plastic accessory without moving into the high mass of many conventional metal record pucks.
Diamond-Cut Finish
The aluminium body features diamond-cut edges that give Clamp it its distinctive machined appearance.
It is a functional accessory first, but Pro-Ject has clearly paid attention to how it looks sitting at the centre of a turntable during playback.
Compact Dimensions
Clamp it measures:
- Diameter: 78mm
- Height: 33mm
- Weight: 120g
The 78mm diameter covers the centre-label area without extending unnecessarily far across the playing surface.
Check Dust-Cover Clearance
Clamp it adds 33mm of height above the centre of the record.
If you normally play records with the turntable dust cover lowered, check that sufficient clearance remains above the clamp before closing the cover.
Produced in Europe
Pro-Ject specifies Clamp it as produced in Europe.
The machined aluminium construction, leather contact surface and diamond-cut detailing are consistent with its positioning as a long-term turntable accessory rather than a disposable add-on.
Can Clamp it Improve Sound?
Pro-Ject's objective is to reduce unwanted resonance and improve the mechanical connection between record and platter.
How audible the result is will depend on the turntable, platter material, record and existing level of record-to-platter contact.
The easiest way to find out is to listen with and without the clamp on your own turntable.
Try It on Familiar Records
When assessing any mechanical turntable upgrade, use records you know well and compare the same section with and without the accessory. That is considerably more useful than assuming every system will respond in exactly the same way.
What Should You Listen For?
If Clamp it is benefiting your turntable, changes may be heard in areas such as:
- Image focus
- Bass definition
- Transient clarity
- Low-level detail
- Soundstage stability
- Overall sense of mechanical control
The scale of any change will naturally depend on the turntable and record being used.
Useful With Flat Records Too
Clamp it is not solely intended as a tool for visibly warped vinyl.
Its primary purpose is to improve coupling between the record and platter, so the principle still applies to records that appear flat.
Warp adjustment is an additional advantage rather than the only reason to use the clamp.
Does Clamp it Change Turntable Speed?
At 120g, Clamp it adds relatively little mass compared with heavyweight record pucks.
Its purpose is to secure the record to the platter rather than act as an additional flywheel or substantially alter the rotational mass of the platter system.
Does Clamp it Replace a Turntable Mat?
No. A turntable mat and record clamp perform different mechanical functions.
The mat forms the surface between the record and platter, while Clamp it applies pressure from the centre to help hold those surfaces together.
The two can therefore be used together where appropriate for the turntable.
Clamp it and Platter Mats
Pro-Ject offers several platter-mat materials, including cork, cork/rubber and leather.
Changing a mat affects the interface between platter and record, while Clamp it affects how securely that interface is held together.
If experimenting with both, make one change at a time so you can hear what each accessory is doing.
Clamp it and Acrylic Platters
Acrylic platters are often designed for the record to make direct contact with the platter surface without a conventional felt mat.
A record clamp can therefore be particularly interesting as a way of increasing the physical contact between the vinyl and acrylic surface.
Always follow the turntable manufacturer's guidance regarding platter mats and accessories.
Does Clamp it Work With 7-Inch Records?
The clamp operates around the centre spindle and contacts the label area rather than depending on the outside diameter of the record.
As with any record accessory, check that the clamp does not interfere with the playing groove or other parts of the turntable before use.
Does Clamp it Work With 45 RPM Records?
Where a conventional small-hole record fits directly over the turntable spindle, Clamp it operates in the same basic manner regardless of playback speed.
Large-centre-hole singles require their normal 45 RPM adaptor and should be assessed according to the turntable and adaptor arrangement being used.
Quick Enough for Everyday Use
A turntable accessory is of limited value if it makes playing a record unnecessarily awkward.
Clamp it has been designed to be fitted and removed in seconds, so using it does not turn every record change into an elaborate setup procedure.
Recommended Clamp it Routine
- Make sure the turntable platter is stationary.
- Place the record onto the platter as normal.
- Check that the Clamp it screw cap is loose.
- Press the cap down to unlock the clamping mechanism.
- Lower Clamp it over the centre spindle.
- Apply only a small amount of downward pressure where required.
- Turn the knob clockwise until the clamp is snug.
- Do not overtighten.
- Start the turntable and play the record.
- When finished, stop the platter.
- Turn the knob counter-clockwise to release the clamp.
- Lift Clamp it vertically from the spindle.
- Remove or turn over the record.
Do Not Overtighten
The official Pro-Ject instructions explicitly warn against overtightening Clamp it. Use only enough force to make the clamp snug and achieve secure record-to-platter contact.
Keep the Leather Surface Clean
The leather underside comes into contact with the record label every time Clamp it is fitted.
Keep this surface free from grit and contamination so debris is not repeatedly pressed against your records.
Keep the Clamp Mechanism Clean
Because the internal mechanism grips the centre spindle, avoid allowing dirt or sticky contamination to build up inside the clamping area.
Store Clamp it somewhere clean and dry when it is not being used.
Don't Force the Mechanism
If Clamp it does not release easily, make sure the knob has been loosened sufficiently before attempting to lift it from the turntable.
There should be no need to pull aggressively against the centre spindle.
Featured by Audio T
Clamp it has previously featured in our Audio T article Hi-Fi Add-ons You Never Knew You Needed, where we looked at the advantages of using a lightweight adjustable clamp rather than relying solely on a heavy record puck.
Key Features
- Pro-Ject Clamp it
- Aluminium record clamp
- Turntable record clamp
- Mechanical spindle clamp
- Adjustable clamping pressure
- Fine-adjustable tightening force
- Suitable for warped records
- Can help flatten some records during playback
- Helps improve record-to-platter contact
- Designed to reduce unwanted resonances
- Uses clamping force rather than high mass
- 120g weight
- Suitable for smooth spindles
- Suitable for threaded spindles
- Fast installation
- Quick removal
- Full aluminium construction
- Leather coating
- Leather label protection
- Diamond-cut finish
- 78mm diameter
- 33mm height
- Produced in Europe
- No permanent installation required
- No electrical power required
- Alternative to heavyweight record puck
- Turntable upgrade accessory
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pro-Ject Clamp it still current?
Yes. Clamp it remains part of Pro-Ject's current turntable upgrade and accessory range.
What is Pro-Ject Clamp it?
It is a lightweight aluminium record clamp that grips the turntable's centre spindle and applies adjustable downward pressure to the record.
What does a record clamp do?
It helps hold the record securely against the platter, improving the physical connection between the two surfaces.
Does Clamp it use weight or pressure?
It primarily uses an internal clamping mechanism and adjustable pressure rather than relying on high mass.
How much does Clamp it weigh?
120g.
What is Clamp it made from?
Aluminium with a leather contact surface.
What is the leather for?
The leather pad provides a protective interface between the metal clamp and the record label.
What diameter is Clamp it?
78mm.
How tall is Clamp it?
33mm.
Will Clamp it work with a smooth turntable spindle?
Yes. Pro-Ject specifies compatibility with smooth platter spindles.
Will Clamp it work with a threaded spindle?
Yes. It can also clamp around a threaded spindle.
Does Clamp it screw onto the turntable spindle?
No. Its internal mechanism grips around the spindle, so the turntable itself does not require a matching thread.
How do I install Clamp it?
Loosen and press down the screw cap to release the clamp mechanism, position Clamp it over the spindle and turn the knob clockwise until it is snug.
How do I remove Clamp it?
Turn the top knob counter-clockwise until the mechanism releases and then lift the clamp from the spindle.
Should I tighten it as hard as possible?
No. Pro-Ject explicitly warns against overtightening. Tighten only until the clamp is snug.
Can Clamp it help with warped records?
Pro-Ject states that applying a small amount of downward pressure may help flatten some warped records during playback.
Will Clamp it permanently fix a warped record?
No. It may improve how some records sit on the platter during playback but it is not a record-flattening or warp-repair system.
Does Clamp it reduce resonance?
Pro-Ject designed Clamp it to reduce unwanted resonance between the playing record and turntable platter.
Can Clamp it improve sound quality?
Its purpose is to improve mechanical record-to-platter coupling. The audible result will depend on the turntable, platter and record being used.
What is the difference between a record clamp and a record puck?
A puck generally relies on its mass to press the record against the platter. Clamp it grips the spindle and uses adjustable mechanical pressure instead.
Why might I choose a clamp instead of a heavy puck?
Clamp it provides secure record-to-platter coupling while adding only 120g, making it useful where you do not want to place a large additional mass on the main bearing.
Can a heavy puck be bad for a turntable?
It depends on the turntable. Pro-Ject notes that high-mass pucks should be matched appropriately to the platter and bearing design rather than assumed suitable for every deck.
Does Clamp it work on perfectly flat records?
Yes. Its purpose is record-to-platter coupling generally; warp control is an additional function.
Does Clamp it replace a platter mat?
No. A platter mat controls the interface between platter and vinyl, while Clamp it provides the pressure holding the record against that surface.
Can Clamp it be used with an acrylic platter?
It can be used where the turntable and spindle arrangement accommodate the clamp. Follow the turntable manufacturer's guidance regarding platter accessories.
Can Clamp it be used with a felt mat?
The clamp and mat perform different functions and can be used together where appropriate for the turntable.
Can Clamp it be used with a cork mat?
Yes where appropriate for the turntable. Clamp it acts at the centre spindle while the mat forms the playing surface beneath the record.
Does the turntable have to be stopped before fitting it?
Yes. Fit and remove Clamp it while the platter is stationary.
Will Clamp it fit under my dust cover?
Clamp it is 33mm high. If you play records with the dust cover lowered, check the available clearance on your particular turntable.
Does Clamp it require power?
No. It is a completely mechanical accessory.
Does Clamp it permanently attach to the turntable?
No. It is fitted and removed each time a record is played or changed.
Where is Clamp it made?
Pro-Ject specifies it as produced in Europe.
What finish does Clamp it have?
It uses a machined aluminium body with diamond-cut detailing and a leather contact surface.
Is Clamp it suitable for every turntable?
Pro-Ject specifies compatibility with both threaded and smooth platter spindles. As with any turntable accessory, physical clearance and the particular design of your turntable should still be considered before use.
Related Turntable Products and Advice
Why Buy the Pro-Ject Clamp it From Audio T?
A record clamp is simple to use, but choosing between a clamp and a heavyweight puck depends on the turntable itself. Bearing design, platter construction, spindle arrangement and even the platter mat can all affect which approach makes most sense.
Audio T can help you decide whether Clamp it is appropriate for your turntable, show you how little pressure is actually required and help with other mechanical upgrades such as platter mats, sub-platters, cartridge setup and turntable isolation.
- In-store turntable advice
- Record-clamp demonstrations
- Clamp it setup guidance
- Correct clamping-pressure advice
- Record puck versus clamp advice
- Warped-record guidance
- Platter-mat advice
- Turntable upgrade advice
- Turntable levelling
- Cartridge setup
- Tracking-force setup
- Cartridge alignment
- Turntable isolation advice
- General vinyl playback advice
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss whether Clamp it is suitable for your turntable or to hear what a record clamp can do in your own system.