That sucks, but let's not get desperate.
First, pull the tonearm and take a very, very close look at the tip of the vertical bearing post
(with magnification if possible) -does it appear to be bent, blunted, or damaged in any way?
If not, replace the tonearm, 'balance' it (stylus guard!) and nudge it back and forth over the platter in a horizontal plane-does it move easily, with no herky-jerky stops? If not, you're probably a-okay-the 'out of level' syndrome was just the azimuth setting needing adjustment. Go through the entire adjustment procedure, and listen to sweet, sweet music.
Saying all this, I'd still call VPI one way or the other-they're the experts. And counsel-in no uncertain terms-your dickhead pals to stay away from the delicate stuff. Give 'em a CD to plop in the player.
First, pull the tonearm and take a very, very close look at the tip of the vertical bearing post
(with magnification if possible) -does it appear to be bent, blunted, or damaged in any way?
If not, replace the tonearm, 'balance' it (stylus guard!) and nudge it back and forth over the platter in a horizontal plane-does it move easily, with no herky-jerky stops? If not, you're probably a-okay-the 'out of level' syndrome was just the azimuth setting needing adjustment. Go through the entire adjustment procedure, and listen to sweet, sweet music.
Saying all this, I'd still call VPI one way or the other-they're the experts. And counsel-in no uncertain terms-your dickhead pals to stay away from the delicate stuff. Give 'em a CD to plop in the player.