tt ground to phono section. solid copper?

The looping issues are why the ground is optional. :)  Listen and that will tell you.

I agree either solid or stranded will work, 16 gauge should be more than enough.  You may also want to try the really really cheap ferrite beads on either or both ends ($5 for a pack).  May do nothing, but cheap. :)


Erik

@jea48 is kind of mostly right.

It's not a safety ground, so practically any gauge will do, but ...when it connects at the phonograph preamplifier's chassis I believe, which in turn should connect to the earth through the preamp's AC plug, when present.

This is another reason why the safety ground on a preamp should never b e disabled.  A lethal voltage could develop at the tonearm or fire created when that wire melts due to an AC short in the preamp otherwise.

Of course, it's very very rare.

Best,

Erik

@jea48

Yes, and the safety ground is connected to the chassis of the equipment it goes to.  The screw/thread/ground connector next to the turntable input is connected to what, exactly? :-)

Best,


Erik