This is how vinyl LP record discs are made:
A master disc is cut on a special lathe. The cutting head moves across the master in a straight line from the edge to the center. The special stylus inscribes a groove in the surface of the disc.
Ideally, a turntable system should enable the stylus in your cartridge to meticulously follow the "path inscribed during the cutting process. That is, it should play your record precisely as the master disc was originally cut.
A "straight line tracking- turntable system. properly designed, engineered and manufactured, could eliminate problems such as skating force. tracking error, and the resulting excessive record wear, all of which are inherent in pivoted arm systems in all their forms and modifications.
This is how the ST-7 plays them:
The Rabco ST-7 is a ,straight line tracking turntable. Your stylus precisely follows the original path cut into the master record. The result is the total elimination of both tracking error and skating force.
The ST-7 begins with straight line tracking. In every other respect-motor.
suspension, bearings, drive. controls-it is exemplary of a professional instrument designed for home use.
The ST-7 offers a cascade of zeroes. Zero tracking error. Zero skating force.
Zero stylus overhang Zero horizontal friction. Zero vertical friction The ST-7 plays music in the home in a way that makes conventional pivoted arm systems obsolete. For complete information write Harman Kardon. 55 Ames Court. Plainview. N.Y. harman/kardon
Also see:
Source: Stereo Review (USA magazine)