If you want to demonstrate or hear for yourself what a mis-aligned cartridge sounds like-get a test record. I've been working on my setup's alignment over the past couple of days and think I finally have it "dialed in". The VTA's correct, the SRA is correct as is the azimuth and the amount of anti-skate and lateral balance. Before I corrected, my setup always distorted slightly during loud inner tracks. After I was sure the cartridge was mounted correctly (having used every template, etc. available), I was able to use the test record's test tones to fine tune the lateral balance and anti skate to the point of lowest distortion.
My setup passed all of the "torture test grooves" and sounds quiet throughout playback.
My setup passed all of the "torture test grooves" and sounds quiet throughout playback.