Cartridge Break-in at High VTF?


I'd like to know if anyone has knowledge and experience breaking in a new cartridge at a slightly higher vertical tracking force than the manufacturer's normal recommended force. I'm thinking if the cartridge's recommended VTF is 2 grams, then I'd break it in at something like 2.5 g. The way I'm thinking, this would loosen the suspension more in a vertical direction. Assuming I don't put too much force on the cantilever (like 2.5 g vs. 2), is this a good thing or not?
bl2000

Showing 1 response by larryi

Not a good idea. You could permanently deform the suspension parts which are designed to keep the generating elements within a particular operating position. Unless you went way overboard, the cantilever should hold up, but still, there is no good reason to overstress that as well.

You need to consider that measurements are not all that accurate so you could end up WAY over. I watched the distributor of Allaerte cartridges install a $13,000 cartridge in a friend's rig. He used three different digital scales, all three read differently, with a range of something like .3 grams difference. He averaged the three.

I don't understand the crazy obcession with break in. It will happen in time, and it is not like the music cannot be enjoyed while it is happening. The big changes will happen pretty early, like in the first 20 hours or so.