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 melm

Correct azimuth allows you to have a soundstage that, for many recordings, extends well beyond the speakers and well behind them. Since I listen to classical music, I think the rewards of a proper azimuth are large and rewarding. YMMV.

The adjustment is very easy with my arm.  I find that with the proper records, I can adjust it by ear. Some people use expensive devices to do so. I have read about them and I would find them a pain, and expensive pain at that.

Though others may differ, playing a mono record with one channel out of phase will get you very close, perhaps close enough.