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VTA setting up.....how do I find level?

I've read advice to "raise the rear of the tonearm .03 inches from level" for best performance of my Lyra Helikon cartridge.

OK, how do you find level? If I place a bubble level on the tonearm it stresses the stylus with the extra weight! (damage potential!?) and bends the arm down, so it's not in the normal playing position.

Then, the numbered barrel on the JMW12.5 arm indicates what? (numbered 0 through 99)

Could someone address this particular step of the setup please?
jbatlanta

Showing 1 response by ptmconsulting

ptmconsulting
1,000 posts
 
As a start, and if your arm is not tapered, the simplest way to get to "level" is to take a lined index card and place it behind the arm wand as it lays on the record surface. Line up the card's lines with either the top or bottom of the arm wand. That's a starting point, and no it's not precise - just by eye. But it is far better to have that reference point than trying to eyeball it without one. I couldn't believe how far off I was without it.

Enjoy,
Bob
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