I agree with Dougdeacon to get the Mint or Wally Tractor. have both for my arm. There is little to choose between them. Get a lighted magnifier to aid setup.
In addition, I would a decent digital scale to measure tracking force as well as something like the KAB Speedstrobe to set the turntable speed. I would rate these three tools as more important than a test record.
Next, VPI makes an Aluminum Rod that is handy for initial setting of azimuth. Any light straight object can be substituted. Same with Wally VTA Gauge I use to set initial VTA. Mark 1 Eyeball and a index card is a less expensive alternative :)
As for test records, I use three. I have the Cardas one because my Wally Analog Shop uses some test tones from it in setting Azimuth. I use the Hi-Fi News one for general set up, as well as the Telarc Omnidisc.
I finalize setup by adjusting by ear while playing my favorite LP's
I absolutely hate setting up cartridges. The one good thing about it is that once setup is done, it generally sticks. I check everything a couple of times a year just to make sure.
In addition, I would a decent digital scale to measure tracking force as well as something like the KAB Speedstrobe to set the turntable speed. I would rate these three tools as more important than a test record.
Next, VPI makes an Aluminum Rod that is handy for initial setting of azimuth. Any light straight object can be substituted. Same with Wally VTA Gauge I use to set initial VTA. Mark 1 Eyeball and a index card is a less expensive alternative :)
As for test records, I use three. I have the Cardas one because my Wally Analog Shop uses some test tones from it in setting Azimuth. I use the Hi-Fi News one for general set up, as well as the Telarc Omnidisc.
I finalize setup by adjusting by ear while playing my favorite LP's
I absolutely hate setting up cartridges. The one good thing about it is that once setup is done, it generally sticks. I check everything a couple of times a year just to make sure.