The arm, also known as the tonearm, on a turntable is responsible for accurately tracking the grooves on vinyl records. Occasionally, turntable owners may encounter a situation where the arm moves outward instead of staying in its proper position. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the outward movement, discuss potential risks to the turntable, and provide guidance on how to address this issue.
- Incorrect Balance and Tracking Force: One common cause of outward movement is an improper balance and tracking force setup. If the tracking force applied to the stylus is too light, it can result in the arm being unbalanced, leading to outward movement. Insufficient tracking force can also cause mistracking, skipping, or poor sound quality. Ensuring the correct balance and tracking force is essential for stable arm positioning.
- Incorrect Anti-Skate Adjustment: Another factor that can contribute to the arm moving outward is an incorrect anti-skate adjustment. The anti-skate function, as discussed in a previous article, counteracts the inward pull of the tonearm caused by centripetal force. If the anti-skate is set too low or disabled, the arm may move outward due to the natural force exerted by the stylus and tonearm assembly. Proper anti-skate adjustment is necessary to maintain stable arm positioning.
- Cartridge Alignment Issues: Improper cartridge alignment can also lead to outward arm movement. If the cartridge is not aligned correctly within the headshell, it can cause tracking problems and unbalanced arm movement. Proper alignment ensures that the stylus accurately tracks the record grooves and minimizes lateral forces that can result in outward movement.
- Risks to the Turntable: Outward arm movement can potentially pose risks to the turntable and the vinyl records. If the arm moves too far outward, it can collide with the turntable plinth or other components, potentially causing damage to the arm, cartridge, or the turntable itself. Additionally, mistracking caused by the arm moving outward can lead to increased wear on the record grooves, compromising audio quality and potentially damaging the records.
- How to Address the Issue: To address the outward movement of the turntable arm, consider the following steps:
- Check Tracking Force: Ensure that the tracking force applied to the stylus is set correctly according to the cartridge manufacturer’s recommendations. Adjust the counterweight or tracking force mechanism accordingly to achieve the proper balance and tracking force.
- Adjust Anti-Skate: Verify that the anti-skate mechanism is properly set based on the turntable’s user manual or manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure the anti-skate force is sufficient to counteract the inward pull on the tonearm and maintain stable arm positioning.
- Verify Cartridge Alignment: Check the alignment of the cartridge within the headshell using a cartridge alignment tool. Correct any misalignment issues by making necessary adjustments to ensure proper tracking and minimize lateral forces that can cause outward arm movement.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about the adjustments or encounter persistent outward movement despite your efforts, it may be beneficial to seek assistance from a professional technician or turntable specialist. They can provide expert guidance, diagnose potential issues, and make necessary adjustments or repairs to resolve the problem.
Conclusion:
Outward movement of a turntable arm can be caused by incorrect balance, tracking force, anti-skate adjustment, or cartridge alignment. This issue can pose risks to the turntable and records if left unresolved. By ensuring proper balance, tracking force, anti-skate adjustment, and cartridge alignment, you can address the outward movement and maintain stable arm positioning. If needed, consult a professional for assistance to diagnose and resolve the issue accurately, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your turntable and vinyl records.
