Twl, great post - Risch's comments should be manditory reading for all, not just newbies. Although I have always referred to SRA as VTA for simplicity as the adjustment mechanism for SRA and VTA is the same, correct SRA with a line stylus is what makes "on the fly" VTA adjustment manditory for folks who want to hear their LP's at their very best, especially those thick audiophile thingies.
VTA - High, Low, Where You go?
Most tonearm dealers recommend a level setting of the arm in relation to an LP. Many audiophiles suggest a level to slightly "butt down" setting (which has been my general experience). I would have interest to hear from those who find that a "Headshell down" setting works best with their rig. If you do, what arm/pickup are you using?