Linn Ittok Arm Adjustments

TWl,

you recommend setting the arm level with the record. I am in the same predicament as "Heindmmoe," above. Am not sure exactly what you mean by "level with the record." Do you mean that, when placed on the record, that the arm should be parallel to the record surface? In which case, a bubble level, set on the tonearm (no, I wouldn't actually do that!) should indicate that it is level (assuming that the platter is also).

A possibly related matter: I recently bought my first 180gm LP and was shocked at the terrible sound. Because such LPs surely must be thicker that than "normal" ones, is it essential to adjust the VTA when playing such LPs? And should the tracking force also be adjusted?

THANKS!

Great, Twl! Thanks very much! My arm does, indeed, have that small amount of "positive VTA" to which you referred. I have a Goldring Excel VX on an Ittock LVII arm. So, the next question is, how does one know which cartridges like which VTA? And is the Goldring in the "positive VTA" group? Thanks again for your help. What is your consulation fee?!

I might send an e-mail to John at Goldring and ask him about the VTA. He's been very helpful in other matters.

In another discussion forum, you recommended a Denon cartridge (I think the same one you use in your system) for this Ittock arm. Is my memory correct? As a factory-trained Linn guy, do you subscribe to the notion that Linn tables really sound best with Linn cartridges?

YES, I am thoroughly enjoying my record collection (except that most of my old LPs are in less than mint condition and maybe need a good cleaning).

Twl:

hmmm.... tempting to give the Denon a try. I am currently using an EAR phono stage which has suitable gain and will be trying out a Blue Circle in the next week or so.