VTA Adjustment
VTA adjustment describes how a tonearm’s height can be changed. It identifies the mechanism, not an angle or height range.
VTA means vertical tracking angle: the angle between the record surface and a line from stylus contact to the pivot of the cantilever, the tiny rod supporting the stylus. Raising or lowering the arm base changes that geometry.
VTA Adjustment — Tonearm
“None” means fixed height. “Shims / spacers” raise the arm base. “Adjustable at set-up” means changing height with playback stopped, using the specified screw, collar or other mechanism. “On the fly” allows adjustment during playback, only as the maker permits.
Changing to a taller or shorter cartridge may require an arm-height check. Follow the arm and cartridge makers’ instructions; on a complete turntable, check the fitted arm. A separately sold adjuster does not mean the feature is included.
Sources
- VTA geometry and arm-height setup — Audio-Technica
- Arm-height spacers and cartridge clearance — Rega
- 4Point 14: VTA adjustment during playback — Kuzma