That is why getting used to dropping needles as gently as possible should be achieved. As minute flicks (of random magnitude) produced by very small snap between the groove and the stylus tip as they engage/disengage from each other would then be greatly amplified by the amp and produce a loud click and/thud (or kaboom
) on the speaker/s. I sometimes still commit this error therefore need more practice pa and I would not mind lowering down the volume first just to make sure. Well, this would depend on your setup. If the amp's main volume would be at a distance away, then this would call for a more careful engaging/disengaging between the needle and groove. On the contrary the drawback might be, if you lower the volume first, you might not have an idea how good or bad your needle dropping act is. So I suppose for starters like me, lower down a bit before touching that arm so as not to fry those golden little windings. Although cueing devices would be a great help, but being independent from it might be better because not all tables do have that feature. That is, if you really want to learn and master the skill.