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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
audionoobie
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
@cleeds 

VTA is always positive, by definition.
Remember that VTA is the angle of the cantilever to the LP surface.

Arm tube angle is positive or negative and you can only change it by VTA adjustment on Technics tonearm if the arm tube is not parallel to the record surface when the needle is on the record. If tonearm manufacturer can't give you that option than a cartridge spacer or thicker/thinner mat can help (on Technics turntable the OP is talking about). 

cleeds
6,258 posts
 
chakster
Arm tube angle is positive or negative and you can only change it by VTA adjustment ...
I suppose you can consider pickup arm angle as positive or negative and, yes, you adjust it by changing VTA. But VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) is always positive, by definition. That's because VTA is the angle of the cantilever to the LP surface.
avanti1960
1,597 posts
 
correct.  arm tube or cartridge can be zero (level) while VTA can be positive.  
typically VTA can be set closely by precisely leveling the top of a flat headshell to the platter while the needle is in the groove, VTF compensated for the mass of the level.  
adjust by ear from there.  
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