Pitch / Varispeed Range
Pitch adjustment range states how far a device lets the user vary playback speed from nominal.
Changing transport speed changes playback duration and pitch together unless separate processing compensates for pitch. The percentage describes adjustment capability, not an error in the nominal speed.
Pitch / Varispeed Range — Turntable
For a turntable, the range describes how far pitch control can raise or lower platter speed. Some decks offer several selectable ranges, while others provide only fine trimming.
Keep each selectable range and any asymmetric lower and upper limits identifiable. A wide adjustment range does not establish good speed accuracy, and reaching another speed with pitch control is different from a dedicated speed setting.
Pitch / Varispeed Range — Reel-to-Reel
For a reel-to-reel deck, varispeed changes tape speed around the selected nominal speed. It can adjust pitch or accommodate material recorded at a slightly different speed.
Compare the range at the relevant nominal tape speed and preserve asymmetric limits. This is not wow and flutter or steady-speed accuracy; a larger range describes flexibility rather than stability.
Pitch / Varispeed Range — Tape Deck
For a cassette deck, pitch control varies transport speed within the stated range. It can alter musical pitch and playback time or compensate for a recording made at a different speed.
Compare the available adjustment and any mode restrictions. The presence of a pitch knob does not establish its range, and the range should not be confused with speed error or short-term fluctuation.