Glossary · Turntables
Overhang
How far the stylus sits past the spindle when swung over.
Overhang is the distance the stylus extends beyond the spindle when the arm is swung to the center. Set with a protractor, it establishes the geometry that gives two null points of zero tracking error. Correct overhang and offset are what a cartridge alignment actually dials in.
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.
Azimuth
The vertical, side-to-side alignment of the stylus in the groove.
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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