Quote:
Originally Posted by lem321
One of the keys to proper set-up is having the right tools and the knowledge to use those tools. A good cartridge alignment tool would be a great place to start. There are many out there. IMO, I think the VPI alignment gauge is okay but a better one would be the Dr. Feickert Next Generation Alignment Protractor. Other necessary tools include a digital stylus gauge, a test record such as one made by Analog Productions and some method (e.g. listening) or tool to dial in azimuth (Fozgometer). If your Fatboy didn't come with the Soundsmith Counter Intuitive, it's a worthwhile investment for easier set-up. Also getting a smartphone app such as the "Magnifying Glass HD" really helps seeing the stylus using whatever alignment tool you use. Best of luck!
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I sure had no problem with the VPI alignment gauge and the included balance rod for azimuth on my Avenger with the Unipivot. In fact, I'd have to say that this was by far the simplest setup I've yet done. My gf's daughter eyeballed the cartridge after I had it where I wanted it, she said - eh, we can do better, I made a slight tweak, she was happy, and I snugged the mounting screws. As for azimuth, the balance rod is really a pretty damn ingenious way of approaching this. It took one half turn of one of the weights on the base of the tonearm and it was level. Done. I was prepared to fight with the weight at the back of the tonearm a bit based on what I had heard elsewhere. It simply wasn't necessary.
I also used zero anti-skating as that appears to be the VPI way. When in Rome do as the Romans I thought. The results were as close to perfection as I've ever achieved and in a fraction of the time it normally takes me with a good protractor.