Phono Cartridge Alignment

jimmydep
jimmydep Posts: 1,305
edited July 2009 in Electronics
I just installed a new cartridge on my TT. Any suggestions on how to align the cartridge properly. I'm thinking I'll have to get an alignment guage to do it right.
Is there a way to align the cartridge without an alignment tool?



Thanks
Jimmy
Post edited by jimmydep on
· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • hearingimpared
    hearingimpared Posts: 21,136
    edited July 2009
    Here is a link for cartridge alignment tools.

    https://www.elusivedisc.com/departments.asp?dept=329
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • billbillw
    billbillw Posts: 7,066
    edited July 2009
    jimmydep wrote: »
    I just installed a new cartridge on my TT. Any suggestions on how to align the cartridge properly. I'm thinking I'll have to get an alignment guage to do it right.
    Is there a way to align the cartridge without an alignment tool?



    Thanks
    Jimmy


    You can't do it without some type of alignment tool. Some turntable/tonearms come with a jig that lets you adjust until the stylus point is in a certain point. Most people just use a 'null point' protractor. (which can usually be downloaded and printed for free)

    Most of them are designed for 2 points (inner and outer) which minimizes distortion for most tonearms. You adjust until you get it aligned to both points. The two null points really depends on the tonearm lenth/curve/etc. What kind of TT are you aligning?
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • jimmydep
    jimmydep Posts: 1,305
    edited July 2009
    billbillw wrote: »
    You can't do it without some type of alignment tool. Some turntable/tonearms come with a jig that lets you adjust until the stylus point is in a certain point. Most people just use a 'null point' protractor. (which can usually be downloaded and printed for free)

    Most of them are designed for 2 points (inner and outer) which minimizes distortion for most tonearms. You adjust until you get it aligned to both points. The two null points really depends on the tonearm lenth/curve/etc. What kind of TT are you aligning?


    I have an old Sony PS-4300 it has an S shaped tone arm....I know the TT is old but it's in immaculate condition and works and sounds very nice.

    Thanks for the advice

    Jim D
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • billbillw
    billbillw Posts: 7,066
    edited July 2009
    I'd just go to vinyl engine and download a free protractor. Use the ones called "stupid protractors" and cut out the Baerwald one. It should get you pretty close.

    http://www.vinylengine.com/cartridge-alignment-protractors.shtml

    (you may have to register to get access, but its worth it because its free, and you have access to hundreds of manuals and brochures).
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • jimmydep
    jimmydep Posts: 1,305
    edited July 2009
    Thanks, I downloaded the protractor (I didn't have to register) it was easy to use, and took about 20 min and a large magnifying glass to get it right.

    Thank you for all your help, it sounds better than ever now.

    Jimmy D
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter