The purpose of this paper is to show the limitations of the stereo disk since the recognition of these limits should result in improved quality. Mentioned are three different kinds of distortion which may occur when a ball-shaped stylus tip plays back a theoretically perfect groove. Groove width vs amplitude of stereo information is calculated and compared to that of monophonic records. Limits for groove width are discussed along with playing time. Also recovered is the relationship between amplitude and velocity when considering RIAA equalization and peak energy distribution of the program material. The theoretical and practical limits for vertical and lateral velocities are calculated revealing that it is quite possible to cut records which cannot be processed. Preferred playback stylus mounting when considering velocity and difference in -vertical- tracking angle between cutter and playback cartridge is mentioned. Finally, an example is given showing the frightening theoretical cutting levels if the signal is not modified before it is fed into the cutter. Possible modifications of the signal are mentioned, and examples throughout the paper give a picture of the practical conditions.
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