Inner tracks vs outer tracks

Good point!

Of course low frequency noise and distortion with outer grooves also tends to be typically most noticeable from record warp and other common defects in record structure and that is where a better tracking rig will clearly shine the most over a lesser one, ie where the roller coaster ride is the most extreme.

Double whammy there. Record rotation velocity is highest and warps also tend to be most pronounced with the outer grooves.

The curvature of the record is greatest with the inner grooves which would effect tracking and low frequency modulation the most ie its a form of distortion.

Records are 100 year old technology. Good stuff and a beloved format by many including me, at least records from the golden age, but flawed in comparison to modern technology in many ways.

Tracking a record  is like trying to write legibly on a rollercoaster.  Not easy!  

A simple examination of any record will demonstrate that the geometry of the grooves changes continuously from outer to inner grooves as the diameter of the record decreases. It’s the best they could do when conceived over 100 years ago. Yes the technology is that old! Amazing it is still around and somewhat popular.