Considering Using a Test Record For Verifying Azimuth....Opinions?

[Mister Pig]

Earlier this year I came across a test record put out by Realistic, Catalog 50-1001. There is a track for channel balance that has equal levels of white noise in each channel. I was wondering if it would be possible to play the track and measure the output of each channel at the RCA jacks with a multi meter. It would seem that if azimuth were correctly set, then each channel should measure the same output. Yes I understand that the cartridge will have some variation in each channel, but they still should measure very close I would think. I would also think that my ZYX should have closely matched channel levels, certainly given its price point it should.

Is there any reason why this method wouldn't work? Are there any points to consider about the best way to perform the test? The tonearm I own is a uni pivot design, and uses a pin and snubber assembly to make initial azimuth adjustments. So the arm can be adjusted quickly and easily. A set of side weights are then used to bring the pin off the channel, and allow the arm to properly float free of the assembly. I am curious to see how close my azimuth setting is now, for I feel I have it correct.

Thoughts/opinions?

Regards
Mister Pig

 

[ferninando]

if you find a certain track that allows you to test some parameter then go for it. Seems the thing to do. thats why their 'test' records/. if azmuth is wrong how you gonna get good ch. bal? But Im no xpert and never done it but see no reason why it wouldn't.

 

[uHenry]

You'll need a graphic representation of the L/R amplitude preferably showing Vrms.
Something like Cooledit/Audition or Visual Analyzer (windows CRO sim) which is free and very good for this task. A multimeter won't cut it.

 

[mayidunk]

As long as it's a true monaural track, then you might try reversing the leads on one side of the cart (channels out of phase with each other), then set the stereo/mono switch to mono, play that track, and adjust the azimuth for the lowest sound level. The out-of-phase signals out of the cart will tend to cancel each other out when the levels out of each channel are equal.

When you're done, don't forget to reconnect the leads out the cart so they are back in phase!

Good luck!