Technics SL-1200GR setup question


Hey A'goners,

I recently purchased a Technics SL-1200GR TT and am very pleased with it. I purchased used and it came with a Denon D-110 cart.

My understanding is that when the VTA is properly setup, the tonearm should be parallel with the surface of the record. In my case, the arm tilts down slightly. In other words, it's higher in the back and lower near the cart. The tonearm adjustment is as low as it goes. If I lift up the tonearm to make it level it is probably a good 1/4."

Does anyone have any suggestions here? Is this common or an acceptable degree of tilt? I don't think a shim is going to get 'er done here. 

I appreciate any and all suggestions. 

Thanks,
Joe
128x128audionoobie
@lewm 

More from this interview with VdH: 

“What I learned was that in the playing position the arm must always be somewhat higher at its rear end (the counterweight end). A 9 to 9.5 inch arm around 7 - 9 mm higher. This improves the resolution a lot. Works with any arm and any cartridge. What you have to keep in mind is that each record is different. So fine- tuning the spatial resolution is slightly different per record. This can be fine-tuned by changing the distance between the arm bearing and the mounting board.

One millimetre up or down can be enough. But the average of 7 - 9 mm up works always in your advantage.”

chakster
... the arm must always be somewhat higher at its rear end (the counterweight end). A 9 to 9.5 inch arm around 7 - 9 mm higher. This improves the resolution a lot. Works with any arm and any cartridge ...
Ugh.
I’m sure the added distortion is likely to offer more of that warm, tubey-like analog sound. Some people like that.

I prefer neutrality, and have found a phono cartridge manufacturer’s VTA spec - typically around 22 degrees or so - yields the best result. In practice that means the pickup arm is level or very nearly so.
To the OP, this mat comes in various thicknesses at a reasonable price. I used Herbies mats when I had a Rega TT.
https://herbiesaudiolab.com/collections/turntable-mats/products/way-excellent-ii-turntable-mat?varia...

I have a SL1200G with Hana SL and the arm is practically level.