These two points are known as null points (the distance between the spindle and the pivot point where there is no tracking error). With a pivoted tonearm, it is possible to achieve perfect tangency at only two points as the tonearm travels in an arc across the record. It is important that the stylus be aligned in such a way that its tip remains as tangent to the record groove as possible as it travels across the record. Square the sides of the cartridge body up to the sides of the headshell and snug the cartridge mounting screw.Ī cartridge alignment protractor may also be used to set overhang and, in addition (and perhaps more importantly), to set the cartridge offset angle and null points.Move the cartridge forward or backward as needed to align the stylus tip with the end of the gauge.Insert the headshell into the opening in the gauge until the shoulder on the post of the headhell bottoms out against the gauge.Instructions for using the Technics Overhang Gauge (shown above): The Technics gauge is available for separate purchase. This should equate to 15 mm from the spindle to the tip. The Technics gauge is 52 mm from the post shoulder to the tip of the stylus. Other manufacturers supplied similar versions. An example of this is the white plastic Technics Overhang Gauge, which Technics supplied with their turntables for many years. This gauge holds a removable type headshell/cartidge assembly, and the measurement used is taken from the headshell post shoulder (aka flange) to the stylus tip. If your particular tonearm does not swing far enough inward to reach the spindle, a headshell-type gauge is a good alternative. Spindle-type gauges are sometimes supplied with the turntable, tonearm, or cartridge.ĪT6180a Stroboscope Disc with 10 – 20 mm stylus overhang markings Some gauges are designed to be placed against the spindle, on the side opposite the tonearm pivot, while others, such as our AT6180a Stroboscope Disc / Overhang Gauge shown below, are designed to be placed on the spindle (like a record disc). Stylus overhang makes up part of a tonearm’s effective length.Ī simple way to set overhang is to use a dedicated overhang gauge that has markings in millimeters (mm). Specifically, overhang is the distance the stylus tip extends beyond the center spindle when the tonearm is positioned directly over the spindle. Various tools are available for achieving this alignment.Īt the very least, the stylus overhang distance specified for a given turntable or tonearm should be met. Proper alignment of the stylus as it relates to the record groove ensures the most accurate reproduction of the recording, low tracing noise, and the least amount of wear on both the record and stylus. Proper alignment of a turntable’s stylus (needle) is needed in order to realize the full potential of the turntable’s cartridge and stylus system. Question : How do I align my Audio-Technica phono cartridge?Īnswer : There are a few ways to align a phono cartridge, and we will cover some simple and some more advanced methods in this blog post.
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