What is cartridge alignment and why does it matter?

Cartridge alignment ensures the stylus traces the record groove at the correct angle, minimising tracking distortion. Poor alignment increases distortion, accelerates record and stylus wear, and degrades sound quality — particularly at the inner grooves where the problem is worst.

Which alignment geometry should I use?

Baerwald is the most popular and distributes error evenly — it is the best all-round choice. Loefgren B is slightly better for full-side listening. Stevenson prioritises inner groove accuracy, beneficial for classical records where the crescendo is often near the end of a side.

What are null points?

Null points are the two radii on the record where tracking error is exactly zero. Between and outside these points, there is some tracking angle error. Different geometries place the null points at different positions to optimise different aspects of playback quality.

How do I physically align a cartridge?

Use a protractor (alignment gauge) placed on the platter. The stylus is placed on each null point and the cartridge body is rotated until it is parallel to the grid lines. Adjust the cartridge position in the headshell slots to set the correct overhang first, then adjust the angle.

AudioCalcs

Cartridge Alignment Calculator

Calculate overhang, offset angle and null points for tonearm cartridge alignment.

Effective Length

Pivot to stylus tip distance

Mounting Distance

Pivot to spindle centre distance

Alignment GeometryAlignment optimisation method

How We Calculate This

Overhang

Overhang = Effective Length - Mounting Distance

Null Points

Calculated from the alignment geometry using the inner and outer groove radii of a standard LP (60.325mm and 146.05mm by IEC standard).

Offset Angle

The angle between the cantilever and a line from the stylus to the pivot, optimised to minimise tracking error at the null points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. Always verify results for critical applications.