Floor mats: style and sound

What if I told you your favorite vinyl can sound even better?

You know that feeling when the needle drops and that record you love starts playing... everything pauses, right? Well, there's something small but powerful that can make that moment even more epic: the turntable slipmat .

Yes, that record you place between your turntable and the vinyl isn't just a decoration. It's part of the sound, the care, and even the style of your setup. So if you thought it didn't matter which one you used... wait until you read this.

What does a turntable mat actually do?

You could say it's like a luxurious cushion for your vinyl. It reduces friction, prevents annoying vibrations, protects the grooves... and depending on the material, it can even enhance the treble or reinforce the bass. There are also versions designed for DJs, others designed for listening to music at home, and others that simply look amazing in your living room or on your vinyl record storage cabinet .

Types of turntable mats: which one is right for you?

Felt

A DJ favorite. They're thin, flexible, and allow the record to glide effortlessly.

• Ideal for : scratching and mixing.
• Advantages : smooth glide, very light.
• Disadvantages : they do not isolate vibrations or dust.

Rubber

Thick, heavy, and stable. This is sound quality.

• Ideal for : home listening sessions.
• Advantages : they reduce vibrations and static.
• Disadvantages : zero glide, not for DJs.

Acrylic

Modern, transparent, or with crazy designs. Pure style.

• Ideal for : improving sound definition with a visual touch.
• Advantages : frequency boost, brutal look.
• Disadvantages : less slip tolerance, somewhat more expensive.

Cork

A midpoint between classic and modern. Light but effective.

• Ideal for : those seeking balance.
• Advantages : They reduce static, vibrations and look great.
• Disadvantages : They require a little more care.

Is it really worth changing your mat?

Your turntable may come with a basic slipmat, but if you want more control, better sound, and a polished aesthetic, upgrading it is a noticeable upgrade. Plus:

• Protect your discs from wear and scratches.
• You reduce static vibrations that affect the sound.
• You add personality to your setup, whether on your desk or on that box in the living room where you keep your equipment.

How to choose the best one for you?

If you like to experiment and mix things up, felt is the way to go. If you prefer to listen to classic vinyl with a clean sound, choose rubber or cork. And if you also want it to look amazing on your turntable (and match your floating shelf or cube storage box ), acrylic is a luxury to behold.

Final tip: try different ones and choose your favorite

I have several: a cork one for when I want to relax and listen in low light, and an acrylic one when I feel like showing off my more aesthetic and modern side. And just as you choose your records based on your mood, you can do the same with the slipmat. It all adds up!