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Importance of headshell and tonearm alignment

I own a Thorens TD166MKII with an SME 309 improved arm. I haven't been able to align the arm and headshell using a protractor. The installer tried to correct the problem by cutting away the rear section of the subchassis metal base to the point of leaving the arm base supported by the two front screws. This cutting allowed the arm assembly to slide further and slightly improved the alignment but it is still off. I can get true alignment on the cartridge if I use aftermarket headshells with slots which allow the cartridge to slide at an angle within the headshell. Does anyone have experience with this type of installation and can offer a solution? Should I be concerned with the alignment of the headshell and arm or just be content with getting the cartridge aligned?
flyfisher
albertporter's avatar
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albertporter
4,949 posts
 
I agree with Pcosta, except I would use another headshell with longer screw slots to avoid disposing of your cartridge. I modified a Linn tonearm by elongating the headshell screw slots and it worked perfectly.

Fortunately the SME has a detachable head shell so the elongated slot "surgery" is not required in your case.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
It is also possible you're using the wrong protractor.

The 309 was designed for different null-points than the Baerwald points used by many protractors.
flyfisher OP
46 posts
 
I appreciate your answers, I will attempt alignment with a different protractor.
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
Print the free one on line and try it, just go to:
http://www.vinylengine.com/manuals_tonearm_protractors.shtml
flyfisher OP
46 posts
 
Aligned with two different protractors and obtained the same results.
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