TT setup Protractors

[Capcom]

Originally Posted by tima

This is one of the areas where higher-priced tools such the SmarTractor and Feickert add their value. Their stylus alignment grids are not positioned by eye-balling a line or string, but physically position themselves to the tonearm pivot point. This gets both an accurate pivot to spindle position and correct setup for the stylus alignment. The stylus alignment on the SmarTractor uses a pinpoint mark into which the stylus point sits and uses a mirror with parallax effect to insure your eye is seeing the cantilever straight-on.

It is possible to use an eye-ball method but they are prone to difficulty and sometimes to frustration. If you manage to get your eyes looking exactly perpendicular to the platter from overhead, the slightest head or eye movement, even breathing, can create inaccuracy. Pre-position some painters tape or similar to immediately lock the device to the turntable as soon as you think you've got it right; and make sure you have immobilized the platter beforehand. The human factors also make repeatability an issue. Always worthwhile to come back next day or so and put the tool back in place to double-check how well you did.

It's easy to say that with a 5 or 6-figure cartridge you want the best possible alignment so you'll get your money's worth, so extra dollars for a better tool can pay dividends over time. But it's also about the software investment as it is too easy to damage your records with poor stylus alignment.

I have to say... you make a convincing argument to investing the necessary funds in a proper alignment device like the SmarTractor, MintLp, Feickert or something similar.
Looks like I'll have to give one of those a try.

[Capcom]

For anyone thats interested, here's a pdf file of the SmarTractor user manual.

[Markd51]

Thinking back, I remember Yip in Hong Kong wishing specification of the Spindle Diameter, and I was able to provide him that having a Dial Caliper on hand. I believe the MintLP Tractor is glass, not plastic, and I truly was sweating the installation on the Spindle because it was very "snug".

Figured one wrong move, twist, or forcing this literal press fit, and there goes a $110 tool in the trash.

The MintLP also possessed extremely fine lines for the Arc, and the Null Grid. So minute, and fine, that I could not clearly see the Null Grid's fine details until I took a magnifying glass to examine.

[jameslrock]

I considered the SmartTractor, the Feickert and the GeoDisc. There are others such as MintLP that are more TT specific and since I have a Rega now and will likely change to a VPI later this year I wanted to be able to use for different TTs in the future. While the SmartTractor may be superior to others it is just too costly. I ordered both the Feickert and the GeoDisc and will try them both to determine which is best for my use. I expect the Feickert will be the keeper.

[SHV]

"It is possible to use an eye-ball method but they are prone to difficulty and sometimes to frustration."
****
I eliminated most of the "eye-ball" error by using my DeWalt laser level to line things up, however, if I had a multi-thousand cart, I would spend the $$ for more precision.

Steve

Steve

[ngc4900]

I expect the Feickert will be the keeper.

Hi James, did the Feickert work out. I am considering the SmartTractor. What other tools worked out for you?
Thanks

Best

Joe

[chops-tube]

I just ordered the Geodisc as I'm tired of using those free printed ones from VE. They're good and all, but if you don't get the spindle holes just right, you're never going to get the alignment right. Not only that, those spindle holes can start to wear, causing slop once again.

I was also considering the Pro-Ject align-it with the arm that extends to the pivot, but 2 things stopped me... I'm not 100% sure if it's a universal tool for any TT, and I'm not 100% sure I'm ready to spend $150 on something I'm only going to use once every few years or more.

I figured the Geodisc has been around for years and has offered great, repeatable results for people, so it's good enough for me, and the price is right.

[Arr_w]

Honestly, I think you can get a good result by printing your own. Use and online calculator, make the pdf, email it to a print shop and pay $5. Ask them to print three or four, that way you can see if there is any variance. I've done this with great results.

BUT the paranoia did creep in once. And I had a Mint protractor made. One month later it showed up and I did my tests... I didn't change a thing, the card stock templates were perfect.

[Weirdcuba]

Is there a thread or source on TT set up? I haven't done it since high school and need a primer. Seems one of those topics that might go on forever, so all I need is an overview to start.

Thanks in advance.

[audio bill]

Here's a good reference for turntable, tonearm, and cartridge setup. The Audio Beat - Analog 101, underwritten by VPI Industries Hope that you find it helpful, and if you have any questions just ask.