2. analog
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Setting Antiskate - visually

I just installed a Kleos onto my Nott 294 with stock arm. For setting antiskate, the Lyra instructions say to observe the cartridge and cantilever as it settles into the record grove - if the cartridge settles to the right or left, adjust the antiskate so it remains vertical.

Well, this is a really tough thing to observe. But, after raising and lowering the tonearm several times with the lever (not by hand), I could watch the cantilever literally walk to the right or the left across the record - one or two or three grooves at a time, and easily observe the skate effect. Just to the left or right of the space between songs provides a good fixed reference spot on the record. Adjusting the antiskate weight to its max and min setting had a clear observable effect on its behavior.

It seems to me that this "method" is consistent with Lyra�s instructions, but does avoid the skating effects, if any, imposed by the rotation of the record. So, has any one used this �method� and/or have any comments?
poonbean

Showing 2 responses by poonbean

poonbean OP
42 posts
 
Almarg - Thanks, that is straightforward enough. Yes, your question about my approach identified the big flaw. I did do it without the record rotating, duh. (though it was easy).

I'd also say to dougdeacon that at least one of the reasons to use your eyes is to get it real close, if not spot on. You/me might not know how good or great the playback can be if simply relying on your ears and trial and error to dialing in your system. I will also note that, unlike say amplifiers which are largely plug and play, analog playback and cartridge and arm design assume a very precise geometric relationship between the cantilever and the record surface - which is affected by many significant variables, including overhang, alignment, vtf, vta, effective length, speed stability, etc. To assume you can nail all that with your ears is silly.
poonbean OP
42 posts
 
Actually, I believe we do agree here. There are several rather precise measurements and settings that must first be made visually, which if done correctly should set the analog deck up correctly - which is to say, it complies with the mfgs design and intent for the arm, table, cartridge. Fine tuning to compensate for less than accurately made settings, incorrect parameters provided by the mfg, wear and tear on the TT, etc., and to satisfy your own desires for sound should come after that.

I fail to understand how one could possibly set up the TT and cartridge using ears alone - there are simply too many variables. Seems to me that the vta, vtf, overhang, mounting distance, etc. are all set up using your eyes (at least initially). Which brings me back to the start of the thread - how to visually set the antiskate close, if not spot on. After these adjustments are set close enough, then fine tuning by ear could begin.
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