Tonearm compatibility and advice


Dear Vinyl Gurus,

Does the spindle-to-pivot distance determine whether an arm fits a particular table? Or is the needle-to-pivot the determining factor? Or does the headshell adjustment allow you to make up for small mismatches?

The tonearm mounting hole on my table is exactly 222 mm from the center of the hole to the spindle. I was considering a Hadcock GH 228 Export, but I'm confused whether it will work with my table. The spindle to pivot distance for the Hadcock is 212.8 mm, which is 9 mm short, but the needle to pivot distance is specified as 228.6 mm which will make the needle overhang by 6.6 mm.

I would greatly appreciate help understanding this geometry stuff. More specifically, will this arm work with my table? Thanks in advance.

For what it's worth:

TT spindle to center of mounting hole: 222 mm
TT arm mounting diameter: 22 mm
Hadcock GH 228 spindle to pivot: 212.8 mm
Hadcock GH 228 pivot base diameter: ~15 mm
Hadcock GH 228 specs
My table specs
mingles

Showing 2 responses by stanwal

I have two of the ADC bases left over from my days as an audio dealer. I have no idea what they are worth.
If you like Denon, the 304 is thought by many overseas to be their best cart. in many respects. It is compatable with the Rega arm [I use one in my SME IV on a Basis Ovation] and should be around your price range.It is a very good cartridge.