The process of adjusting and measuring a device to ensure it delivers accurate results.
-
close
Calibration
-
close
Cartridge
A device that converts the mechanical vibrations of a turntable needle into electrical signals. It consists of a magnet and coil or a piezoelectric material that reacts to the needle’s movements, extracting the sound from the record.
-
close
Cartridge overhang
The distance by which the stylus tip extends beyond the turntable spindle when the cartridge is correctly aligned, referenced to the tonearm mounting distance.
It is a parameter of tonearm/cartridge geometry and, together with offset angle and effective length, serves to minimise tangential tracking error across the specified playback radius.
A
≙
Mounting distance
B
≙
Cartridge overhang
A
+
B
≙
Effective tonearm length
-
close
Cassette
A magnetic tape format used for recording and playback of audio.
-
close
Cleaning
The maintenance and cleaning of records, cartridges, and other components to prolong their lifespan and preserve sound quality.
-
close
Quadraphonic sound
A surround sound system that uses four independent audio channels to create spatial sound reproduction. When playing quadraphonic audio, sound is distributed across four speakers – typically front left, front right, rear left, and rear right – to create a three-dimensional listening experience. Quadraphonic sound was popular in the 1970s but has mostly been replaced by modern multichannel systems like 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound.
-
close
Receiver
A device that receives, amplifies, and processes radio or audio signals for output. In audio contexts, often part of a hi-fi system.
-
close
Record
An analog storage medium where music or other audio recordings are etched in the form of grooves on a flat disc, typically made of vinyl. During playback, a needle tracks the grooves, converting the mechanical movements into audio signals.
-
close
RIAA curve
A standardized frequency response curve that enables precise adjustments for vinyl record recordings. During recording, a filter is applied to reduce low frequencies and boost high frequencies to compensate for the physical limitations of the vinyl format. During playback, the reverse curve is applied to restore the sound to its original form and achieve a linear, flat frequency response.
-
close
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
The number of revolutions a turntable makes per minute. Common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM for LPs, 45 RPM for singles, and 78 RPM for shellac records.
-
close
Tape recorder
An analog recording and playback device that uses magnetic tape as a medium. It is commonly used for studio recording and archiving.
