1) To clear something up - Azimuth isn't about phase, it's about crosstalk. If you ever get to see a test report, it's the other line on the graph below the frequency response line. It's a common misconception that azimuth is alignment of the stylus in-groove. It's actually the alignment of the armature (depending on design) inside the cart, being parallel to the record surface. Some carts (especially handmade) are not level inside.
A very slight misaligned (side to side) stylus, will still bounce off a 45° groove wall according to the tilt of the armature.
2) LOMC response does not change with load. It seems to change because RF type noise can make it sound bright. Loading down a MC for correct tonal value is actually eliminating this noise and is preamp dependent. What might change is expansiveness/stage vs. focus/detail.
neo
