The best phono cartridge alignment tool


The best phono cartridge alignment tool.  Can anyone recommend a phono cartridge alignment tool that:

- Has both horizontal and vertical (azimuth) alignment

-  isn't that complex to use

-  is under $300?

Some of the phone cartridges I'm interested aren't available in my area so professional set-up is not an option.  If I'm going to spend $2K to $4K on a cartidge I really need to make sure I nail the installation.  thanks.

 

russellrcncom

Showing 1 response by bigby

I just set up my VPI Classic 3 again after watching this Video . It really helped me understand how to use some of the tools.

I used the protractor arm that came with the turntable (Sorry, I know this is where you wanted a suggestion). But, here are some extra ideas that may help you:

  • I created a stationary arm out of a coat hanger. It overhangs the strobe matt so I can tell when the speed is correct (i.e. the numbers don’t move).
  • I bought a laser leveler for $60 at Lowes (I already had a tripod stand). This was a big help.
    • I could never get the tone arm level using the plastic block with the lines on it that was described in the video. With the laser, I can look at the line all the way across the tonearm.
    • VPI gives you a small steel bar to set the azimuth. I could never tell when it was level. The laser helped with this.

The dynamics are a lot better now. So I am a happy camper 😀

Let me know if you think the video is any good. Before watching it, I really didn’t think that my cart was set up correctly. 

I have a USB scope.  It is too tedious to use so I set the tonearm level and adjust by ear.