tracking distortion on a p5 + rega cartridge?

These records are vacuum-cleaned before any playing, as is the stylus.

I guess I should try the Baerwald aligment instead of using the stock rega template. I just have a hard time imagining that this distortion is normal when the cart is aligned according to the manufacturers specs.

Oh, I should also mention that the distortion is far more active when playing the outer edges (beginning) of a record.

A good test for cartridge mistracking is to play the last track of a record and to assess how well a table is performing,but if you are noticing a change in distortion levels that is consistent,double-check your alignment.This can be laborious but there is no other way.I would be wary of the cartridge for the moment and not risk any further damage to your L.P's.Something is wrong.Make your sure cleaning methods are not the culprit-i.e double check everything.Too harsh cleaning can cause irreparable damage.Manufacturer's spec's it must be pointed out also are only a guide,things like required tracking force can change with the weather,if not a record.If you can try another cartridge(not necessarily a Rega)to see what happens.

Well, I ordered some new gear from needledoctor to help me fix my prob.

-Rega Exact Cartridge
-Geo Disc (uses Baerwald alignment)
-Onzow Zerodust stylus cleaner & some Caig ProGold contact cleaner

If this doesn't solve it, I give up.

Good luck with the new gear,it should work out.The Exact is a very good cartridge.I would also consider a really good record cleaning fluid like Disc Doctor,Gruv Glide or Last Record Preservative.For phagocytes i.e microscopic mould on records which is impossible to remove there is Vinyl-Zyme.I think Music Direct has a similar product as well.The unseen can lurk as well.

As far as record cleaning... I give em a go with Orbitrac 2 (to get alot of the initial grime/dust/debris off), followed by a thorough clean with the Nitty Gritty 1.5fi. Then a quick spray with compressed air before playing.

I can't imagine vinyl getting any cleaner than that...