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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
128x128audionoobie

Showing 2 responses by avanti1960

avanti1960
1,405 posts
 
make sure u are using the stock headshell, it puts the cartridge lower than other aftermarket headshells. 
to level the assembly level the platter in all directions, put a small round level on top of the flat part of the headshell (temporarily adjust vtf to compensate for the weight).  then adjust tonearm height dial to level the headshell. 
use of a thicker mat helps with my cartridge, i use a 4mm herbies, stock mat is 3mm. 
also i believe many use a spacer on top of the cartridge to lower it further and add mass, which helps with the system resonance.  
it looks like a denon cart is about 2mm too short to be level on a stock GR at the lowest tonearm height
avanti1960
1,405 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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