Glossary · Turntables
Azimuth
The vertical, side-to-side alignment of the stylus in the groove.
Azimuth is whether the stylus stands perfectly upright in the groove rather than leaning left or right. Correct azimuth keeps the two channels balanced and separation high. On most decks it’s fixed; adjustable headshells let you correct a leaning cartridge with a mirror or test tone.
Terms on the same stage
Tracking Force (VTF)
The downward weight the stylus presses into the groove, in grams.
Anti-Skate
Force that counters the tonearm’s inward pull toward the spindle.
VTA
Vertical tracking angle — the tonearm’s height at the pivot.
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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