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When cantilever not parallel to cartridge sides


A newbie question:

I have only bought two new cartridges so far and found that in both cases, the cantilevers are not parallel to the sides of the cartridge bodies. In both cases, I have to twist the cartridge bodies by 20% or so in order to properly set the correct zenith angle.

I wonder is this normal? or should I send it back to the dealer for exchange?
viper_z

Showing 3 responses by audiofeil

audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Photo is blurred but it looks like an Audio Technica not an Ortofon Stringbean.

Keep in mind that the cartridge sides, and the cantilever of course, are not always parallel to the headshell sides when properly aligned with your protractor.

Good luck.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>I measured the angle difference between the front edge of the tonearm and the front face of the cartridge and it is 5.719 degrees. It's way off.<<

This is immaterial. Quite often the cartridge is not parallel with the headshell in correct playing position. It is quite possible for the cartridge to be offset 20% from parallel and still be aligned properly. Depends on the cartridge and headshell configuration.

Without a view of the stylus in playing position, we cannot discern if the OP claim is true or not. I believe he is confusing cartridge postition in the headshell with the cartridge sides and stylus being parallel.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Jugsauce
How about a hug?
LOL
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