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XV-1S and Antiskate

The XV-1s is a fantastic tracker, so much so that changes in the anti skate don't seem to effect the sound that much. Most people (based on searches) seem to set it at zero or very low. I have been listening with no anti skate based on the advise of my dealer. I decided to put a grooveless record on and noticed the arm (Phantom II)swung in fast. Out of curiosity I increased the anti-skate until the arm didn't move. The sound changed slightly and towards a warmer sound. I am more comfortable with the grooveless record approach for setting antiskate because the wear on the stylus would be more even. Some people say set it by ear but does this make sense with a strong tracker like the XV-1s? Am I missing something?
musichead

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musichead OP
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Thanks Doug for the comprehensive answer and you bring some clarity to this issue. I know the XV-1s is a fantastic tracker so much so that I thought it might hiding the need for more anti skate. The grooveless record test just suggested that some antiskate was required. What I didn't know was how strong the XV-1s is as you suggest. Wouldn't want to snap off the cantilever just to see how strong it is :-)

Would you consider the damping fluid in the Phantom to be a "Gain block"? I am finding some damping fluid is required to tame the high frequencies on the XV-1s otherwise the top end can be bright and brittle on some records.

John
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