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Azimuth&Bias on HIFI test record

I bought a used Grado cartridge on the 'Gon. When I go to set it up, everythings runing smoothly VTA, tracking force, alignment. I then listen to the HiFi test record to test azimuth and bias. Concerning azimuth, the text suggests that the test tone should disappear, when the amplifier is switched to mono, because the signals will cancel each other out. Now my question, should there be dead silence or just a reduction in the test tone? On my set-up, when I push the mono button the tone is greatly deminished but, not completely gone. Concerning bias, on the test record they have you listen to a test tone. Supposedly you adjust your bias/anti-skate to smooth out the high frequency test tone. On my system the tone seems to modulate. Do I increase the bias until the tone stops modulating? Would like any advice from those that have experience with using test records. The Grado Platinum is mounted on a RB300 which is attached to a P3. So what's the scoop Analog elders?
colitas

Showing 1 response by twl

twl
3,251 posts
 
I don't use a test record. All my records are "test records". I just play them. I adjust everything by ear.

No azimuth adjustment on a Rega arm, except via shims. The above info on checking azimuth seems right to me.

On a mid to high compliance cartridge, if the bias is terribly off, it is easy to see by looking at the cantilever from the front. If it is angled off the center by the record during play, it is way off. With these more flexible cartridges, you can check for a basic center by looking at it, and then fine tune by ear. With low compliance cartridges, it is a little tougher because it won't be easily seen by looking.
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