Linn Ittok Arm Adjustments

TWl,

you recommend setting the arm level with the record. I am in the same predicament as "Heindmmoe," above. Am not sure exactly what you mean by "level with the record." Do you mean that, when placed on the record, that the arm should be parallel to the record surface? In which case, a bubble level, set on the tonearm (no, I wouldn't actually do that!) should indicate that it is level (assuming that the platter is also).

A possibly related matter: I recently bought my first 180gm LP and was shocked at the terrible sound. Because such LPs surely must be thicker that than "normal" ones, is it essential to adjust the VTA when playing such LPs? And should the tracking force also be adjusted?

THANKS!

Cpdunn, yes that's right. When the record is playing, the arm tube should be level with the record surface. But this is only the starting point. From there, you must tune it in by ear, using the method I described above. Some cartridges like a small amount of Positive VTA, which has the pivot end slightly higher than level, and some carts like a slight amount of Negative VTA, which has the pivot end slightly lower than level. You have to find what your cartridge likes.
Regarding the 180 gram LP's, this can change the VTA enough to change the sound of the system. This is why many audiophile tonearms have adjustable VTA, and some have adjustable on-the-fly VTA, while playing. It is due to the thickness of the record, and other records all have varying thicknesses too, so your VTA will change some with each record you play, and the sound of the system will change slightly also. You do not have to re-set the tracking force when changing VTA, unless you accidentally knock it out with your hand while doing the VTA adjustment.

Great, Twl! Thanks very much! My arm does, indeed, have that small amount of "positive VTA" to which you referred. I have a Goldring Excel VX on an Ittock LVII arm. So, the next question is, how does one know which cartridges like which VTA? And is the Goldring in the "positive VTA" group? Thanks again for your help. What is your consulation fee?!

Cpdunn, the knowledge of what cartridge likes what VTA setting is one of the "black arts" of the analog world. I only know some of them. It comes with alot of experience with different cartridges, over a long time. I haven't used any of the newest Goldrings, but the older models all liked a slightly positive VTA. It is likely that the new ones do also.

My consultation fee is that you enjoy your record collection as much as possible.

I might send an e-mail to John at Goldring and ask him about the VTA. He's been very helpful in other matters.

In another discussion forum, you recommended a Denon cartridge (I think the same one you use in your system) for this Ittock arm. Is my memory correct? As a factory-trained Linn guy, do you subscribe to the notion that Linn tables really sound best with Linn cartridges?

YES, I am thoroughly enjoying my record collection (except that most of my old LPs are in less than mint condition and maybe need a good cleaning).