@cleeds
your are right, however,
most of us ASSUME manufacturing perfection regarding zenith, and most are unwilling to spend $1,100. for AnalogMagik, (even if aware of the possibility, and Wally’s error % findings).
AI Quickie
"Azimuth and zenith are two distinct cartridge alignment parameters that address different angular errors:
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Azimuth refers to the vertical plane angle of the cartridge, viewed from the front. It is the tilt of the cantilever left or right relative to the record surface. The goal is to have the stylus sit perfectly perpendicular to the groove walls to minimize crosstalk (signal leakage between channels) and maximize channel separation. It is typically adjusted by tilting the tonearm up or down at its pivot or by shimming the cartridge.
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Zenith refers to the horizontal plane angle of the cartridge, viewed from above. It is the rotation of the cartridge (like turning a clock face) to align the stylus with the record groove, compensating for errors where the stylus diamond is not mounted at a perfect 90-degree angle to the cantilever. Incorrect zenith shifts the tracking error null points and increases distortion. It is adjusted by rotating the cartridge slightly in the headshell.
In short, azimuth is vertical tilt, while zenith is horizontal rotation. Both are critical for optimal stereo imaging and low distortion, and both are best set using electronic measurement tools like AnalogMagik for accuracy."
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I should add, in addition to anti-skate, imbalanced one-sided wear of a stylus can occur by improper Azimuth, and/or Zenith, either/both of which can be more harmful to the LP’s grooves than slight anti-skate error.
Especially if using an advanced stylus shape, closer to the shape of the cutter blade that made the grooves. This is why more careful alignment is needed when using those desirable shapes
