Why are lead-in grooves so noisy at times?

[Johnny Vinyl]

It doesn't seem to matter if the record is used or new, it seems to me that far too many LP's have noisy lead-in grooves. Many times it doesn't go away even after a good and proper cleaning. Luckily, in my case and I suppose yours as well, most of those lead-ins do not contain any content so the music isn't affected, but it's still a bit of an annoyance.

 

[JackD201]

I'm just guessing but I think it is because most LPs have raised outer rims to protect the grooves. The needles are probably mis-tracking badly until they get to the flat part where the music is. I think that's why the space between tracks is quiet while the lead in grooves are not.

 

[Johnny Vinyl]

Thanks Jack! That does seem to make a lot of sense. I guess I won't worry about it, unless it affects content.