Technics SL-D2 tracking pressure

[boreas]

The suspension is a part of the stylus assembly so, if in fact the cartridge (really the orange stylus assembly) is too close to the record and that a collapsed suspension is the cause, a new stylus will cure the problem.

As you suspected, too much stylus pressure can have the same effect so the first thing to do is to verify that the stylus pressure is within the manufacturer's specifications. (If I remember correctly, that's between 1.0 and 1.8 grams.)

Of course, it may be that the cartridge is not riding too low. Cartridges do normally ride fairly low, some lower than others. It might be a good idea for you to post a photo or two of what you're seeing.

John

 

[Dan ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ]

The AT-120E's optimal tracking is @ 1.25 to 1.50 grams.

 

[seminole54]

This for $13 with free shipping works great and will verify your VTF, so you can quit guessing.

http://dx.com/p/digital-precision-scale-with-leather-case-5g-max-0-01g-resolution-16269

 

[Noobie Dave]

it was too low... when i first got it, it was riding fairly high, with a good visible length between the stylus point and the record. I received my Random Access Memories LP set in the mail and threw it on, later when I took a look, the cartridge was almost touching the record, almost nothing visible of the cantilever.

I figured it might have something to do with the fact that it's a 180 gram record--thicker than my others--but I also figured I needed to adjust the tracking force. That's when I posted here.

I'll order that scale once I get paid. Thanks!