The best phono cartridge alignment tool

I've owned and used many of the protractors used for setting up arms.  Unfortunately, most of the better ones do cost more than $300.  If you can easily find the center of the pivot of the arm, the easiest to use is the SmarTractor.  It is a one point alignment and the device never has to be rotated to a different position.  It is very easy to see when the alignment is correct.  The Wally Tools device requires more work, but, it gives one more confirmation that the alignment is correct and one does not have to find the center of the arm pivot.  The Feikert is reasonably easy to use, sort of like the SmarTractor, but, I like the very precise markings on the SmarTractor more.

the other big trick with alignment tools is turntable height and sight positioning. if you can get your body to be at a height and angle where you are comfortable enough to be in one position for extended periods, then the odds of a better set-up are increased. 

many times i see turntables on low racks or crowded into corners and i wonder just how meticulously those tt’s can be set up?

tools are only as good as our ability to use them. setting up an arm or cartridge should be a pleasure and satisfying. or our results will be diminished.

+1 for @mikelavigne on turntable positioning. Mine resides on the top shelf of my rack which makes it way easier to set alignment, especially for these old eyes.

I usually use a table and then move it to the rack and relieves it.
Is this method fraught with issues?
(Other than a long set of interconnects)

@holmz I usually use a table and then move it to the rack and relieves it.
Is this method fraught with issues?
(Other than a long set of interconnects)

nothing wrong with moving a turntable to a better spot to easily set it up, and then moving it back. this is assuming it’s light enough to be able to reasonably move it, and moving it does not in some way upset your careful set-up. no way to generalize on how that might go.

in my particular case, that is not realistic, as my three turntables are too heavy and complex to be moved in that way; two are 200 pounds, and one is 120 pounds. so all three are at least a 2 person job to move, and two of must be broken down to move.

if you can easily pick up your turntable and fully secure the arm while you do it, then i would agree doing the set-up where it’s easier makes sense.

ultimately if it sounds good to you after moving and set-up then it’s good.