Best protractor for aligning to cantilever

Hi Hyper:

First of all, I would recommend using the cantilever rather than the cartridge body with ANY alignment tool. If the cantilever cannot be viewed or is not referenced on a tool, I would discard that tool. This assumes the stylus is correctly positioned on the cantilever but that is better than making assumptions relative to the cartridge body.

I have not tried any of the Wally tools but understand they come highly recommended. Over the years I have used various two-point alignment devices but now have a Dennesen Soundtracktor with a single stylus reference point calculated from the Baerwald formula. It is marked for cantilever alignment. Both metal and plastic versions were produced. The only limitation with the Dennesen for me is that it requires precise location of the pivot point for the arm. Otherwise, it can be used with any pivoted arm (length).

Nrenter, I think the Dennesen addresses the concerns in your Issue #2. It adjusts for the triangulation between the table spindle, the arm pivot point, and the overhang. It includes an indentation for the stylus tip which falls on the proper overhang arc. While not a mirrored finish (as stated earlier, both metal and plastic versions were produced) there is a reference line etched on the surface that passes through the stylus tip point. I find this line easy to use in aligning the cantilever for offset.

My recommendation for the Dennesen is based on it's accuracy and ease of use. I've owned and used multiple protractors, including the DB, and the Dennesen is the hands down winner for me.

Unfortunately I believe both Dennesen models have been out of production for some time, but may appear on the used market from time to time. A new device, the Frickert, appears to be very similar in design although I have no experience with it.