Glossary · Turntables
Anti-Skate
Force that counters the tonearm’s inward pull toward the spindle.
As a record spins, friction drags a pivoted tonearm inward toward the center. Anti-skate applies an equal outward force so the stylus sits evenly on both groove walls. A good starting point is to match the anti-skate setting to your tracking force, then fine-tune if one channel distorts before the other.
Terms on the same stage
Tracking Force (VTF)
The downward weight the stylus presses into the groove, in grams.
VTA
Vertical tracking angle — the tonearm’s height at the pivot.
Azimuth
The vertical, side-to-side alignment of the stylus in the groove.
Overhang
How far the stylus sits past the spindle when swung over.
Null Point
The two radii where a pivoted arm has zero tracking error.
Belt Drive
Platter driven by a belt from an offset motor.
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