Feickert analogue protractor....Owners impressions

I have used quite a few different models, including the turntablebasics mirrored protractor as well as the db systems protractor.

Most were good, with the db systems getting the best results in my direct comparisons.

But all of this didn't matter after using the Feickert Protractor for the first time.. Let me explain.

The Feickert is a GREAT product. It is in a different league than the others.

It is so accurate that after I finished my setup I finally KNEW with full confidence that my settings were as perfect as they could be.. And the sound backed this up completely.

It was the first time ever that I had zero doubts about my setup. So I'm done..

I sold all my other protractors and kept the Feickert.
I will not sell it.
It is not inexpensive, but it is worth every penny.

Try it. I think you will like it as much as I do.

Hi Again..

I just wanted to explain how I get my overhang with the Feickert. (there seems to be some confusion about needing additional tools or protractors, and multiple arc points)

1. Set up the Feickert measurement tool to measure your spindle to pivot distance. (put it in the correct hole for your length)

2. Now set the spindle to pivot distance to the arm mfg's exact length in mm using the tool..(different procedure for every turntable)

3. Now - Do not move the platter. While keeping the Feickert measuring tool exactly centered over the tonearm pivot point at the correct distance, TAPE the platter with masking tape so it cannot move at all. (After taping you can remove the tool or leave it there)

4. Now swing the arm over the platter. Adjust the cartridge so the stylus touches the only available arc at the exact mm setting from before. That is the perfect overhang for that distance. The sylus will only cross the arc at one exact point. (not several)

5. After the overhang is set, untape the platter and use the 2 grids on the Feickert to fine tune the offset angle by slightly twisting the cartridge clockwise or counter clockwise as needed.

6. Go back and double check the arc and 2 grids.
If all 3 are good you are done..

I have been getting good results this way..

Joe

This is an excellent thread.
It is a good chance to exchange advice, experiences and views.

I have been using the Feickert, and I find it easily accurate to 1/10th of a millimeter, and able to do things that none of the others can...to explain..

I needed the Feickert on a table\arm combo that called for 210mm pivot to spindle distance. The problem was that this particular cartridge had a short stylus to mounting hole distance.. so you could not slide it far enough out in the slots for the proper overhang. (Pivot to spindle distance can be changed of course, but you have to compensate everywhere else.)

I went to 106.5mm to get a nice fit on this combo.
If I had tried to use an arc protractor made for 210mm pivot to spindle distance, I would have been out of luck - no good at all. Instead I set up the Feickert for exactly 106.5 mm.

Until I used this protractor, I did not realize just how accurate the Feickert is. Read this paragraph completely and then CLICK HERE to see a composite picture showing the Feickert accuracy. You will see that you can get a perfect setup for any combination of arm and table, with this one being setup for 222.8 mm. (make sure to view the pic full size to see it clearly)

In picture 1 you will see that it is extremely easy to center the rod over your pivot. (& get a measurement that is exact..not just close, but perfect.)
Rulers will not get near this kind of acuracy.

In picture 2 you can see that the measurement markings are crystal clear and easy to read the exact distance..(this one is 222.8mm - if it were 223 you would see half of the next black line)

In picture 3 you can see exactly where the stylus needs to meet the line on the platter for the perfect overhang.

Do you think anyone would order an arc protractor for 222.8? No way... but you just did a perfect setup with the Feickert.

Once you have the Pivot to Spindle distance "nailed" like this perfectly and the platter taped, the Feickert can do wonders.. and you are basically using a platter template that has ALL the arcs on it, not just one..

(I guess you can tell I like this tool.)

Thanks to all our Audiogon members contributing to this thread.

Joe

Typo - I meant to type 206.5 on the table\arm that needed 210mm.. It's late..goodnight.

Joe