A tonearm is the long, thin arm on a record player that holds the cartridge and stylus (needle) and guides it across the vinyl as the record spins.
When you put a record on a turntable, you lift the tonearm, move it over the edge of the vinyl, and gently lower it so the stylus lands in the first groove. The tonearm then follows the spiral groove until the record ends, keeping the needle steady so the music plays clearly. DJs, vinyl collectors, and hi-fi fans adjust the tonearm’s weight and balance to avoid scratches and get the best sound.
Meaning & Usage Examples
“The tonearm on my old Technics SL-1200 still glides smoothly after twenty years.”
“I balanced the tonearm so the needle doesn’t skip during loud bass drops.”
Common Context
People talk about the tonearm when setting up a turntable, replacing a stylus, or troubleshooting skipping and distortion. It’s also a key spec in hi-fi reviews and DJ gear guides.
Is the tonearm the same as the needle?
No. The tonearm is the arm; the needle (stylus) is the tiny tip that touches the record.
Do all turntables have adjustable tonearms?
Most mid-range and high-end models let you adjust tracking force and height; many entry-level players have fixed tonearms.
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