Any recommendations for a good anti static turntable mat?

So I'm 90% sure static is affecting record playback. On new vinyl I start hearing background crackling about 10 minutes in, I run the used dryer sheet along the record and it dies down. And I frequently get static when lifting records off the table. I'm in a very dry climate.

So I'm eying these suede leather mats on Amazon for $34 plus shipping. Good deal, or is there something cheaper?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00CM...ntable+mat&dpPl=1&dpID=517e9hsGmbL&ref=plSrch

 

On e bay there is a seller with a carbon fiber composite mat they claim works real well haven't tried it but am interested in it. Anyone know anything about them?

 

I too live in a dry climate and I was able to eliminate my static issue using cork mats from this guy on eBay:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cork-Turnta...376?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ae1220670

So far he doesn't have a spot mat option for those using center weights, so those folks should consider only the ones without the spots/dots. I've owned both with great success.

 

I'm interested. This guy?

 

Same one, using for a couple years now with great success, the thicker one solved my non-adjustable VTA issues

 

If you are in a very dry room you can try to increase the humidity a bit.

 

Sweet, I'll give that cork mat from eBay a shot!

We have a humidifier on the central heater, unfortunately with the altitude(Colorado Springs being 6300ft above sea level), natively dry climate and cold weather it's not making a dent. And the TT is in the living room.

 

It's called save vinyl and it's $12.95 plus shipping also has strobe pattern.

 

I'm sorry, but I do not agree. Use what sonically sounds the best for your turntable, your kit, and your ears (regardless of static), than handle the static in some other way other than a record mat. Record mats are so platter and ear dependent, don't let this static issue compromise your sound and your pleasure.

Perhaps an ionizer (I have a shout out, as two friends use one next to their TT. Will report back.), perhaps put a plant that enjoys wet feet near the TT. Anything that doesn't effect your fidelity...

 

For great sound and static free play at a reasonable price get Herbie's Way Excellent mat http://herbiesaudiolab.net/ttmat.htm

 

Deer hide broseph. Theres a guy on amazon and ebay that sells deer hide mats. He cuts them to your specific size.
$30 and nearly eliminated all my static, and it looks beautiful.

 

The same one is available at Sleeve City for the same $12.95 price tag.

 

+1 for Cork Mat... got one from sleeve city IIRC... one of the few "night and day" differences I've experienced in music. Honestly up there with a cartridge upgrade. My house is super staticy though... so it may not be as dramatic for everyone.

 

Thanks Vinyl addict, grabbed a deer hide mat.

 

Awesome. Very nice supple leather.

 

SLC dweller here (quite dry clime). I made a DIY cork mat and I've noticed a reduction in static. Buy or DIY. No experience with carbon fibre or any of the like. Fat rubber mats made no difference in my experience.

 

Best way removing static from a record is to clean it and finish off with a Zerostat 3. I have had no problems since and can use the original Rega mat which to me sounds the best.

 

Herbie's is the only way to go.

 

$70 for a mat is too rich for my blood.

 

Has anyone tried anything like this? Wouldn't cost more than $2

 

Here is the anti-static ion generator I was commenting on earlier in the thread. It works and does not change your audio sonics.
Sani-Mate Plug-In Ionic Air Purifier
http://www.amazon.com/Sani-Mate-Plu...UTF8&qid=1424182174&sr=8-1&keywords=sani-mate

 

I believe this device is an ozone generator, which is hazardous to breath. Buyer beware!

 

Indeed. Odorless and NOT good to breathe in. Ozone generator es no bueno

 

It never hurts to be informed. Here is some information on ion generators and the difference between ion and ozone generation. This is of course one reference and those interested should probably read more. There seems to be some debate of whether or not ionizers and ozone generators are the same, apparently they are not. It also appears to be true that ionizers do produce a very small amount of ozone. What levels are safe? I do not know. They are used in hospitals, so there must be a safe level. As there are many things that are safe or helpful, and only in high doses or if improperly used become dangerous.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_ioniser

 

Since I started wiping my mat with a Swiffer cloth before spins I've completely eliminated static.