2. analog
  3. 1368565187

VTF issues

Hello everyone,
I am having trouble with my tonearm vtf staying stable. It will fluctuate as much as a 1/2 gram just picking it up and setting it back on the meter. It never measures the same twice. I have 3 different vtf gauges. 2 digital and one Shure and they measure the same thing.

I believe it has to do with the adjustment knob on the tonearm. it is very sensitive. It can take up to 30 minutes to get the right reading. The tonearm is the Ortofon RS 212 D.

I just recently purchased the Lyra Kleos. It has a light vtf and the manufacture warns against over loading it. While listening last night the cart started bottoming out. When I measured the tracking force it had gained a full gram.

Is this sensitivity normal or could there be something wrong with the tonearm.

Matt
mwilliams
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
I would sell that arm ASAP
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
If the problem isn't easily diagnosed and eliminated (e.g., tonearm wire improperly dressed and snagging on something to cause intermittent changes in downforce) then I agree with Syntax... sell the arm to him!
mwilliams OP
47 posts
 
Well I've had some time to try your suggestions and it seems to be the bearing sticking. I can lightly blow on the headshell and the weight would increase and would not go back to its original setting. not even close.

I may attempt to work on it myself, but will probably take it to someone to have it looked at.

I was in the market for a new TT, but looks as if I should be looking for a new tonearm.
mwilliams OP
47 posts
 
Spoke with ortofon today. basically they said that the tonearm was just out of warranty and that I was s*#t out of luck. Another good reason to buy American.

May try to clean them myself and see if it will fix it. Can't break something that is already a piece of junk. although I have a couple of there carts. They will no longer receive anymore of my purchases. As if they care.
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Well, Marketing and Reality can show differences....

The Ortofon RS-212D tonearm takes analog sound reproduction to a higher level with highly configurable VTF options and a dynamic balance system for increased stability when tracking warps and other anomalies


Probably you can try MM carts, they have some advantages :-)
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