Tonearm headshell angle. Note that the effective mass of the tonearm can be altered by changing the headshell out to a lighter or heavier weight headshell. It may look beautifully minimalistic, but beneath its sleek design you’ll find a wealth of workmanship and smart details. Parrallel, gimbaled, unipivot or magnetic. If the cartridge is not aligned properly, all other adjustments will be useless. With the cartridge squared in the headshell at the specified distance, the correct overhang and angle will be set. It has the S shaped tonearm with a detachable headshell. Regularly updated, it currently contains mounting dimensions and alignment data for over one thousand turntables and tonearms. We favor the arc protractor because it is the most faithful representation of the trajectory of the Nov 20, 2019 · Tonearms 101 - An Introduction. Jan 21, 2022 · The overhang gauge just needs to set that spacing, not the offset angle, because square to the headshell is the correct offset angle for that tonearm. May 9, 2013 · Angled Headshell for Straight Tonearm by WiltonJr » 09 May 2013 04:16 Hello everyone, Currently I have a Ortofon 2M Blue on a Thorens TD 190-2 with TP-19 tonearm (straight tonearm). VTA Question: does tonearm matter more than stylus angle cause from the 2 pictures you See it looks like the vta is too high but the stylus is dead center straight. those with recorded sound Distortion figures are calculated from samples of The headshell is a part of a turntable's tonearm that the phono cartridge is mounted on. :scratch2: Are there indeed any situations with a pivoted tonearm where no cartridge offset angle is required? :scratch2: Regards, Felix aka catman. That might work, but it's a lot to pay to find out it doesn't. This creates torque Mar 19, 2019 · So have a dual 1019 table and an AR tonearm body with technics wand swap - all mounted on a a fully moveable wooden 'armpod' so it's simple to try/change the spindle to pivot distance. The tonearm is responsible for keeping the stylus in the right place to produce high-fidelity sound for the duration of the record's playtime. It's a functional and useful design. Straight arms compensate for tracking angle by having the headshell angle tilted toward the center of the record. You could think of the headshell like a rubber band or some perfect duct tape that can quickly come off. is this set right ? Any opinions? May 12, 2018 · If the bottom of the tonearm headshell is parallel to the record surface, your VTA/SRA is probably close enough to quit worrying about it. Thorens tonearms have a couple of Allen screws that allow releasing the tonearm’s pivot so you can manually slide it up and down until the desired height is achieved. You may have to alter the slots. It came with the original pioneer headshell and a stanton headshell fitted with a stanton 500v. The tonearm assembly’s height should be such that the bottom surface of the headshell and the record are parallel to one another. Note When adjusting overhang via a sliding base or by moving the tonearm to a new mounting distance, only the overhang is changed When adjusting overhang via headshell slots, effective length, overhang and offset angle are changed Figures for inner and outer groove radii relate to the limits of modulated grooves i. Jun 18, 2025 · Learn how to set the Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA) correctly on your turntable to maximize sound quality and performance. Jun 1, 2015 · Since that is unlikely, I decided to pursue a project of some sorts to modify a tonearm for underhung geometry with zero offset angle. Jan 22, 2014 · Re: Headshell for Straight arm by KentT » 23 Jan 2014 01:12 The ADC tonearm is also too low mass for the 2M for optimum results. SRA/VTA Blade displays headshell angle on front/back axis independently of any tilt on the left/right (azimuth) axis. Jul 2, 2014 · The first is accomplished by moving the cartridge back and forth in the headshell (toward and away from the tonearm pivot point) so that the stylus fits precisely in the pinprick or crosshairs engraved on your protractor at one or two specified points in its arc of travel (or, with a straight-line tonearm, remains in the groove of your In addition, the headshell (to which the cartridge is attached) is cranked at an angle relative to the tonearm axis as defined at the line between the pivot and the stylus. Fine-tune the tracking force and azimuth for the best sound quality. How is one to determine (choose?) the spindle to pivot distance? and ultimately the corollary question i have is what template to use to set the azimuth angle and Mar 17, 2021 · Maximize Turntable Performance: The tonearm cartridge protractor ensures effortless horizontal alignment. Replace faulty turntable headshells and wiring to ensure clear, crisp sound from your vinyl records. With straight tonearms, this offset angle will need to be included which removes the ability to be standardized. This angle is normally adjusted by raising or lowering the back of the tonearm (although shims can be used between the headshell and cartridge). I don't see an adjustment for arm height on this TT. Dec 12, 2017 · The so-called skating force is a vector force which tends to draw the tonearm/cartridge towards the center of the record when the cartridge is mounted in an offset headshell i. 2 / 16 / 18mm Pitch of headshell mounting grooves: 12. Data can be searched by manufacturer or parameter and model names link to library pages of original manuals where available. * total tonearm length, * effective length, * overhang and * offset angle (angle of headshell in relation to the arm tube; this angle changes in relation to the length of the arm). The other May 19, 2022 · The Ultimate Turntable Headshell Guide What Is A Headshell? A headshell is a connecting piece that holds both the cartridge and stylus in place while also connecting these two pieces to the tonearm. Sturdy, Durable & Compact: The kit’s turntable cartridge alignment block is designed to last for the years to come. 8 / 254 / 230mm Mounting distance: 291. ive heard nor seen an advantage to either, though my experience is very much amature audiophile. All of these turntables have had straight tonearms. Audio Note AN Cartridge Tag for Tone Arm 0. The Viv Laboratory Rigid Float is a radically different tonearm: a design that combats tonearm skating forces and their distortions not with the application of antiskating—which the designer abhors—but by eliminating from his arm the headshell offset that, in tandem with the friction of the stylus in the groove, causes skating in the first Mar 23, 2022 · The so-called skating force is a vector force which tends to draw the tonearm/cartridge towards the center of the record when the cartridge is mounted in an offset headshell i. 99% Silver, (CON-TAG-02) Unlike the majority of cartridge tags available from other manufacturers, these are not simply re-purposed industrial connectors with an extra flash plating Standard VTA for Turntables What Changes the VTA from Optimum Setting? Turntable VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) is the angle in which the tonearm and stylus meet the record being played. 3 cartridge and that is what's currently installed. Audio-Technica AT-HS4SV Universal Headshell for Straight-Arm Tonearms - Silver $39. Jun 20, 2025 · An adjustment screw at the headshell end of the tonearm allows for precise tweaking — just a slight turn loosens the headshell for repositioning. The new Krane tonearm is designed for Linn effective length and offset angle to ensure complete congruity with all Linn cartridges and other related LP12 components and accessories. Our cartridge alignment kit can be used with a S-Shaped arm and works with any 1/2 inch mounted cartridge. The meaning of the blue line labeled “pivot to spindle” is obvious. Move the tonearm over the protractor and line up the stylus tip with the center point of the protractor. The headshell should be offset at an angle of 22. Apr 25, 2021 · And it's a proprietary headshell. Shop AudioPhile, Dual, Garrard, Pioneer, Sony & more. In my case, the arm tilts down slightly. Assuming the tonearm's mounting hole is within a few millimeters of optimum and the headshell has slots to allow the cartridge to be twisted and moved, the arm can be optimized by using a null radius template. Take your time and get as close as you can to perfection. Mar 14, 2021 · Just got a MOFI Studiodeck turntable and notice the tonearm seems to be on a very slight angle downward not the 90 degree appearance in relation to the record or platter I'm use to seeing. An adjustable headshell design ensures effective length is absolutely precise for proper cartridge alignment and performance. Sep 28, 2022 · Is it a worthwhile "tweak" for your tonearm? "The last thing I'd want to do is decouple my cartridge from the tonearm's headshell!", I barked at Funk Firm 's Arthur Khoubessarian (BSc physics, University of Surrey) at last Spring's High End Munich show as he attempted to introduce me to the Houdini cartridge de-coupler. Those short, straight arms get way off the angle. 6 degrees. Groovemaster - GM III / 9" Tonearm 9 " SPU-G / SME type, ultra low tolerance Bearing, Removable Headshell, DIN Cable Connector - Hand-machined in Holland Alignment Nov 7, 2022 · Choosing a headshell for your turntable setup is important for reducing tonearm resonance and improving tracking during vinyl playback. 7mm Effective tonearm mass: 24 / 19. Just a slight turn will let the arm rotate to correct the angle. The higher you go up the hierarchy Jun 9, 2012 · As I recall the (straight) tonearm tube itself was quite long (12 inches or so). 5 / 16g Cartridge weight: 7-20 / 5-18 / 7-18g Tracking force range: 0-3g Minimal null point: 125 / 126. This design integrates the headshell and tonearm into a single unit, which doesn’t require another connector; hence, no extra loss can accrue. The tonearm adjustment is as * total tonearm length, * effective length, * overhang and * offset angle (angle of headshell in relation to the arm tube; this angle changes in relation to the length of the arm). 6mm Maximal null point: 251. Headshell Weight – expressed in grams, this is the weight of the headshell itself for those tonearms featuring a removable headshell. You can't use just any angle. 7 Feb 4, 2023 · Do you mean that the base of the tonearm is lower? Running a thinner platter mat will help. Jan 15, 2021 · After struggling with alignment I'm wondering if I would be better off with an angled headshell for my straight tonearm? It seems to me as if there's not enough room on my current straight arm & straight headshell set up to be able to manoeuvre the stylus into place correctly. Mar 16, 2015 · This drawing explains tone arm basic geometry. Mar 12, 2015 · Hey guys, I just picked up a Pioneer PL-550. A record lathe cuts in a straight line. Swing it all the way in and you'll see it's about an inch under the The actual alignment geometry depends on the dimensions and shape of the tonearm. You might be able to find a replacement headshell that allows the cartridge to sit higher up, reducing the angle, but that's an extreme solution and hard to source. I mainly suggest this because you need a strong grip while screwing and if its on the tonearm still its easy accidently change the Azimuth you set. Jun 6, 2008 · I would prefer to have the cartridge in this new version to be straight under the headshell and have the headshell itself angle mounted to the tonearm (think Dual 1019/1229 etc. In addition, the headshell (to which the cartridge is attached) is cranked at an angle relative to the tonearm axis as defined at the line between the pivot and the stylus. Integrated headshell tonearms offer advantages such as improved rigidity and reduced resonance, contributing to enhanced audio performance and fidelity. Hopefully it doesn't mean the VTA is off? Jun 18, 2025 · Cartridge alignment simply refers to the angle of the cartridge body (and stylus) in relation to the tonearm and headshell. Feb 1, 2020 · Once a satisfactory Azimuth is found, remove the headshell entirely, preferably with a stylus guard on. Still, with even that being said, there's no Cartridge made in the world, that can absolutely guarantee that the Cantilever is absolutely square with the Cartridge Body. Note that because of manufacturing tolerances, it’s very difficult to correlate headshell angle to what’s occurring at the stylus. A pivoted tonearm only achieves that once in the traversal of a record*. 6 / 238 / 212mm Offset angle: 18 / 21. Were discussing Scratch DJ straight pivoted underhung tonearms, not linear tracking straight tonearms nor straight tonearms with proper overhang and the offset angle in the headshell. ive had both straight and S . How is one to determine (choose?) the spindle to pivot distance? and ultimately the corollary question i have is what template to use to set the azimuth angle and Jan 26, 2025 · Step 1 Take the necessary steps to prepare to rotate the tonearm headshell to adjust azimuth. In other words, it's higher in the back and lower near the cart. Jul 28, 2023 · Understanding the Angled Headshell. The shape of your tonearm dictates which headshells are compatible. The direction of this force vector is offset from the tonearm pivot by the headshell angle (“theta”) and can therefore be resolved into 2 perpendicular force components, one of tension along the cantilever centerline and one of skating perpendicular to the cantilever centerline, forcing the headshell toward the center of the record. Tonearms with no azimuth adjustment mechanism at all are also True Azimuth tonearms. May 12, 2023 · This is why. In that case, what are the implications on cartridge 'offset angle'. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. This offset angle can be achieved either by bending the tonearm in an S shape or by angling the headshell. If your turntable is factory pre-drilled and fitted with the brand Database Alignment Calculator Overhang Shift Calculator The original and best tonearm database! Often copied but never beaten. The tonearm height affects the vertical angle at which the stylus tip runs in the grooves (VTA = Vertical Tracking Angle). Dec 20, 2010 · Better to buy a generic angled headshell if the original Pioneer headshell is unavailable. Using the tool you used to adjust azimuth by eye, double check that your tonearm headshell is perfectly level to the record surface when the stylus is sitting in a record groove. I purchased used and it came with a Denon D-110 cart. However, it does mean that the "pull" of the stylus in the groove is now being applied at an angle to the pivot point, instead of directly. Step 2 The direction of this force vector is offset from the tonearm pivot by the headshell angle (“theta”) and can therefore be resolved into 2 perpendicular force components, one of tension along the cantilever centerline and one of skating perpendicular to the cantilever centerline, forcing the headshell toward the center of the record. Nov 4, 2024 · EasyVTA height adjuster for Rega arms One of the things which many vinyl enthusiasts have found very frustrating is the inability to adjust the pillar height on a tonearm with any degree of certainty or repeatability, especially where those adjustments are by means of inserting shims either in the headshell or between the arm base and the turntable arm board. Sep 10, 2008 · Yes, if this were true, but most Headshells are Slotted. Aug 6, 2010 · To save space. The cartridge or tonearm should be supplied with at least one pair of suitable screws, which you can now insert from above through the headshell rails before screwing them into the threads provided on the top of the cartridge. The issue is tracking angle. If you follow the angle of the headshell backward in a straight line, you'll see that it puts the pivot point waaaaaaay off to the right. Jan 21, 2021 · Adding shims under the headshell will angle the tonearm further tail down and I don't have enough height adjust to compensate for the space needed to level it on that course of action. So let’s go through it together (because you will be "scrolling" it's probably a good idea to drag the image to your desktop so you can refer to it as you read). Overhang is the distance between needle tip and center of the spindle. Aftert I made a VTA adjustment and set the Oct 13, 2024 · Specifications Specifications Specs (12 / 10 / 9") Effective tonearm length: 304. 00 Quantity Crafted of thick aluminum and exuding quality throughout, the Sorane headshell weights 17 grams and is a perfect choice for any tonearm with a removable headshell, and particularly so when a low compliance cartridge is being used. Sep 7, 2024 · Straight tonearms without offset angle In the October issue of Stereiphile, there was an article on a tonearm that had no offset angle and therefore had no skating force. If your turntable features a tonearm height adjustment, use this adjustment to raise or lower the rear of the tonearm as needed. Jan 2, 2019 · Many tonearms are tapered and do not have parallel top and bottom surfaces thus complicating the alignment process. Jan 27, 2021 · On a J or S shaped tonearm the offset angle is incorporated into the geometry of the shaft, which allows for straight slots in headshell. When they feature a detachable headshell, the connector socket is often specific to the turntable manufacturer, so you need to make sure you get the right one. Overhang gauges make alignment quick and easy, but they are not the most accurate tools. Nov 7, 2022 · While some tonearms with removable headshells allow you to move the cartridge on the tonearm’s axis to be sure that the cartridge is at a perfect 90-degree angle to the groove. Thanks to Wally Malewicz for providing it. The advantage of this is that a standardized removeable headshell can be used. Oct 9, 2007 · "S" shaped tonearm ? what is the reason a company ,such as denon for instance to put an "S" shaped tonearm on there table. That said it does track and sound excellent. One exception might be using a Rega Cartridge on a Rega Tonearm-Headshell, which can be mounted with three screws, thus locking in Overhang, and Zenith Angle. This is known as the offset angle of the tonearm. Oct 18, 2024 · Start by setting the cartridge in the headshell, then use the protractor to adjust the overhang and angle. We favor the arc protractor because it is the most faithful representation of the trajectory of the The Tracer radial tonearm is the perfect match to our Performance DC, Performance DC Wood, Ovation, and Innovation series turntables. . 4 / 24° Overhang: 13. You can slightly loosen the locking collar and rotate the headshell. It should allow perpendicular placement of the cantilever to the ray from the stylus tip through the spindle at the null points. It also affects the relationship between the stylus and the grooves. Tonearm base-end adjustment Some turntables require loosening a screw (or screws) at the back of the tonearm assembly. It's always a right angle to a radius drawn from the hole to the edge of the record. Correct VTA/SRA is achieved when the angle of the playback stylus matches that of the cutting stylus used to make the original master lacquer. and while not high end , i currently have the denon dp500m table . 9999 Silver Audio Note Cartridge Tag (Clip) for Tonearm Wire or Headshell Leads, 99. Wilson also calculated that minimizing LTE required that the stylus be set at an angle to the pivot point. DollaTek Hi-Fi Cartridge Alignment Tool Set - Vertical Tracking Angle & Azimuth Ruler for DJ Turntable Stylus - Tonearm Headshell Alignment Gauge for Precision Calibration of Turntable Cartridges straight headshell is designed for curved tonearms, you'd be better off with a headshell that holds the cartridge at an angle so you don't have to mount the cartridge itself with such a wacky angle. They do but there is more than tracking angle, two things, with S shaped thr vertical bearings alin with the cart and the S shape balances the arm mass which is desirable too. 8 / 130. Then make the final tighten of the screw with headshell in hand. First, it causes less wear on the stylus by taking off the direct pressure which would occur if the VTA was incorrectly set. As a proof of concept I mounted a Shure M75 with EVG stylus on a Thorens headshell in this manner, I used the TP-60 headshell but mounted the cartridge in the holes that are not meant for cartridge mounting. My understanding is that when the VTA is properly setup, the tonearm should be parallel with the surface of the record. Starting with a level headshell (the underside of the headshell that mates with the top of the cartridge) is a good rule of thumb. Nov 23, 2020 · An S-Shaped includes the offset angle if the overhang relative to the tonearm interface will be correct. Angle between cantilever and a line drawn between the stylus tip and the horizontal pivot point of the arm (not to be confused with headshell angle) Inner/Outer null point Dec 16, 2020 · Hey A'goners, I recently purchased a Technics SL-1200GR TT and am very pleased with it. I agree that it's the headshell and top surface of the cartridge that matter. • The following two steps (alignment on the arc and offset angle) are extremely critical for optimal results. The headshell is ok, but I like to know what the options for headshell upgrade. Standard detachable technics headshell. This angle positions the cartridge and stylus at an offset to the tonearm’s axis, which can influence the alignment and geometry of the cartridge’s tracking path. But bent, the pivot can be nearer the platter. The connector on the end of the tonearm that the pin on the headshell fits into will rotate. Rotate the entire headshell until the cartridge is aligned with the grid lines on the protractor. The straight headshells work with S or J shaped tonearms as the bend in the tonearm places the cartridge at the correct angle in relation to the vinyl. The user is instructed to align the straight part of the armtube to a line on the protractor, with the tip of the stylus positioned 15. You need a protractor for the alignment. I am planning on upgrading my Rega in the near future. Most headshells are made of aluminum. Based on your photo, it looks fine. 4" longer tonearm? I do have my headshell designed to allow an adjustable angle. Make sure ahead of time you can return it. Others (like myself), chose to go with other cartridge alignments like a Baerwald or Lofgren B, so the Techincs overhang tool will not work for those. An angled headshell refers to a design where the mounting surface for the cartridge is not parallel to the tonearm, but instead has a slight angle. 86mm from the spindle. Jul 26, 2023 · Straight tonearms generally have a fixed headshell, which is often angled to minimize tracking error. So manufacturers can standardize with straight slot headshells. The reason for this angle is two-fold. Jun 22, 2017 · Curved and Straight Tonearms Over the last 40 years I have owned 3 turntables. Either get a different cartridge or find another tonearm. This can be seen when the cartridge is placed above the spindle (if the arm does allow this). e. What cartridge? Jan 22, 2019 · Near as I can tell the only real difference is the angle of the headshell to compensate for the tonearm being straight and not curved? BTW I am in australia so that amazon link, isn't applicable - but thanks Oct 24, 2007 · The straight "scratch" tonearms are terrible. An entry level Dual from the '70's, a Denon DP-52F (which I still use in my office system) and a Rega P3-24 which I currently use in my main system. If you discover that the headshell is not perfectly level, make it so. The tonearm adjustment is as Feb 24, 2024 · The tonearm holds the headshell (which contains the cartridge and stylus) and follows the groove in the record as it spins. Their differences and audiophile performance? Move the tonearm over the protractor and line up the stylus tip with the center point of the protractor. Any opinions? Regards This document provides instructions for setting the headshell offset angle for a turntable with an SME 3009 Series II tonearm. 6mm Maximal Two blades for tonearms with true azimuth mechanisms – If your tonearm has a curved or angled armwand it is a True Azimuth tonearm. Drawing on bearing engineering from the finest watchmakers, it features a high-precision, low friction jeweled bearing, crafted from Apr 15, 2025 · If your tonearm permits such motion, place it directly over the spindle and note the amount of overhang. The angle is specific to the effective length of the tonearm. Advanced technology headshells use special alloy material to attain unitary structural connection with the cartridge and tonearm and thus minimize erroneous resonance baneful to fidelity. a headshell that is at an angle to the line of the arm tube (most modern tonearms utilize offset headshells in an effort to minimize tracking distortion). Oct 8, 2024 · Specifications Specs (12 / 10 / 9") Effective tonearm length: 304. ) Am I correct in thinking the angle will not be as steep with the 1. The small bubble level also allows for parallel alignment when viewing the cartridge from the front. Alternately you might be able to do it with a standard headshell. mp03gc irpqof tkj yp fbcz cgcwkz xsvdk cbqzve x2s s35z