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Azimuth: how critical is it?

Have restored a vintage Pioneer PL600 turntable that I use in my second system.  Currently using a Sumiko magnesium head shell and a Hana EL cartridge on it.

Honestly, the sound is quite good - surprisingly so given the minimal investment.

However, my azimuth is slightly off and I’m still trying to figure out how to correct it.  I may need to resort to shims if the arm doesn’t provide for it.

What am I missing with this problem?  
It has bothered me enough mentally to consider a new table but I’m thinking I’ll need to invest at least $3K or more to achieve an improvement.

Thoughts?
bobbydd

Showing 1 response by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,091 posts
 
The more advanced the stylus shape is, the deeper it goes into the grooves, the more important Azimuth becomes.

Not just for sound, but to avoid groove damage, AND get the advantages of greater surface contact area, longer stylus life.

I start with a mirror the same thickness as an LP. Carefully drop the stylus onto the mirror.

View from the front, the mirror will oppositely reflect, thus reveal any deviation from straight. Now what? I had to put tiny shims on one side for an arm with no adjustment, a total pain in the arse, and you want the headshell tight to the headshell, so tedious, but worth it. 

Also a transparent block with grid of lines is helpful

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07794JXYZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

this transparent protractor for side view for VTA, Stylus Rake Angle is helpful

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HF9PEA4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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