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 nekoaudio

Azimuth primarily affects two things: L/R channel crosstalk and L/R relative phase. Trying to figure out either of those things visually is not very reliable, as the actual position of the cantilever relative to the cartridge internals is not visible to you.

We use software to measure crosstalk and phase, with the priority on phase as the optimal point for phase is usually close but not necessarily at the exact same point that is optimal for crosstalk, and in my experience small deviations in timing are much more noticeable than the small amount of additional crosstalk you accept in exchange.

Rather than a new turntable or new tonearm, you could also consider a cartridge that has a ridge along the top. This lets you adjust azimuth a little bit by alternately loosening and tightening the screws.