Technology
Tracking Error
While cutting the master disc of a vinyl LP, the cutting-tool is hold on a massive support and guided on a linear basis. Therefore, the cutting-tool is always aligned tangentially to the groove. While tracking the LP during playback, however, it is preferred to use pivot bearings with little friction on the tonearm. This causes the pickup to move across the record on a circular path instead of a line, and a deviation occurs compared to the tangential alignment. This so-called tracking error leads to distortions and, in the case of modern stylus shape, also to phase errors in the music signal.
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Linear Tracking Tonearm
In order to achieve tangential scanning, linear tonearms were developed and built in different designs. The challenge lies in the high friction values of this technology. Therefore, most solutions have been realized actively (f. e. motor drive or air pressure bearing). The disadvantage of such a tonearm is that all active systems generate vibrations that are and amplified thru the pickup.
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Thales Tracking Geometry
The unique tracking geometry of all Thales tonearms is based on the well-known Thales theorem. A clever rotation mechanism above the stylus allows the cartridge to change the offset-angle and to be constantly alignment towards a specific point. The pivot points are arranged in such a way that the tracking point must follow the Thales’ circle, and the cartridge is aligned along the resulting right-angled triangle. This design allows tangential tracking with technically beneficial pivot bearings.
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Thales Tetragon-Geometry
The mechanical implementation in a right-angled triangle (Thales original) is very complex due to the variable length of the aligning leg. We took this as a mathematical challenge and developed a tetragon geometry that enables a mechanically extremely elegant solution with negligible angular deviation (theoretically ±0.006°). This solution is used in our reference products and has proven itself hundreds of times over.
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Thales Bearing Technology
Based on our long lasting experience in building micro-bearings for high-end tonearms, we started in 2012 to develop the TTF (Thales-Tension-Free) technology. This technology should combine the advantages of traditional jewel bearings (damping properties, one point contact and angular alignment) with the benefit of the ball bearing (load resistant, solid). Much research was made before this new technology could be implemented in our tonearms. The TTF technology offers incredibly low friction values, absolute freedom of backlash and as a nice side effect, an integrated shock absorbing system.
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