Correct VTA is achieved when the angle of the playback stylus matches that of the cutting stylus used to make the original master lacquer. Because the angle of the record lathe cutter head varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, we must readjust our VTA if we expect to achieve optimum playback results. Other variables such as record thickness, stylus shape and variations in cartridge construction, also make VTA adjustment necessary. The purist might adjust VTA for each and every record placed on the 'table. While this is theoretically desirable, it is impractical for most of us due to the mechanical difficulty of making the adjustment.
Most listeners are content with only an initial or occasional adjustment.
Proper VTA will be achieved by trial and error through many listening tests. One should start with a neutral VTA condition as described above, then proceed in small increments up and down, until the best setting is achieved. That is to say, the back of the cartridge body is slightly closer to the record surface than the front. Due to stylus shape and size, some cartridges will be more sensitive to VTA than others. All cartridges however, will benefit, at least to a degree, from proper VTA alignment.