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Off center stylus - Does this affect sonics ??????

Purchased a new Lyra Lydian Beta cartridge and mounted it on a new Rega P-25 table. The stylus rides off center in the needle cradle. Even when the arm is in a stationary position. The stylus sits off center and doesn't change when lowered onto vinyl. I've noticed that the needle does move from left to right freely. I'm concerned that this may affect sonics. However I don't know how it would sound if it were riding in a center position. I don't see any information in the manual on adjustments either. What do you think?
zenieth
curtaudio's avatar
curtaudio
42 posts
 
For what it's worth, as a former dealer and user-most Grados are off centered. When I brought it to Joe Grados attention, he said "no big deal". Oh well.
Curt
zenieth OP
381 posts
 
I appreciate all the responses. I bought the unit new in a sealed box from a fellow member. I've brought it to his attention and he is going to check with the importer. We shall see what becomes of it after that. I certainly hope that this issue is handled in a professional manner too. I have removed it and I'm waiting for a response from the seller..........
sean
6,231 posts
 
If the cantilever / stylus is off-center, i would not expect optimum reproduction. However, I would expect a higher noise floor, less than optimum stereo imaging, excessive disc wear, etc... Any company that knowingly ships out cartridges with this problem obviously lacks quality control and should be avoided like the plague. Sean
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4yanx
1,576 posts
 
If the stylus is not riding "straight", as it were, the cantilever itself is bent or the assembly to which it affixed is out of alignment. I have had experience with this on two occasions. Once associated with the former condition, a long time ago with a Grado, once more recently, associated with the latter, with a Dynavector. In either case, there is a problem and, hopefully, you can seek remedy from your dealer. If you bought it new, a reputable dealer should assist you in obtaining a replacement.
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