Quote Originally Posted by T-Bone
Hey... T-Bone here.

After reading most of the threads in the analogue room, I have realized that a used turntable in good condition can make some great music with a few adjustments (i.e., a new cartridge/stylus). My question is: If I purchase a functioning turntable, how do I ensure that my tonearm and cartridge are aligned properly? When I purchase a table, I will probably want to purchase a Shure M97xE cartridge (someone here recommended it highly). Will this work with most tonearms?

Final rookie question (I hope): How much difference does the tonearm make?

Hope these questions aren't too stupid... T-Bone
If you buy a quality TT, Rega, Linn, VPI, Thorens, or any of a multitude of others with the tonearm attached, you can rest assured that the arm is mounted correctly. You may have to adjust the VTA, the angle at which the stylus interacts with the record groove, which is done by adjusting the arm height or installing shims i.e early Rega arms.

The cartridge requires alignment using an alignment protractor. In the best of all worlds, this should be done where ever you buy the cartridge. If you shop mail order you'll need to buy a protractor to do this yourself. Be aware that suspended tables like the Linn require proper setup to sound their best and this setup is best done by a properly trained dealer, IMO.