Peter_s,
Why not try it yourself and come back and let us know what you find out? Get a scale with some degree of accuracy and precision, say .01 gram +/- .005. Then take a reading at record level and one at 1/2" above (and below if you can). Keep in mind that by adjusting vtf you are changing the static location of the windings to the magnets. Biasing the circuit in a way. So it does not work against physics to suggest that minute changes in vtf can make a difference in the sound. This is probably not going to make any difference with some cartridges but it most definitely does with others. Now through in the mechanical action of the arm and bearings involved and you can see how there may be more or less resistance to slight changes in vtf from the stylus all the way back to the counterweight on the arm. It is all physics.
I don't think it is necessary to have a vtf guage that can measure to .01 in order to enjoy good playback, but it can be very useful with some equipment. And you don't need to spend $800 on the Winds. That $95 guage being sold here by ANS works very well.
I've had the pleasure of hearing Doug's rig. It sounds wonderful with any record. I have also heard the difference on some records when he makes minute changes to VTA. There is a very noticeable improvement. Not all pressings show this but the ones that do show it it very will. Granted this doesn't speak to vtf changes but I have no doubt that the table/arm/cart combo he is using is capable of showing what differences these slight changes can make.
"If you hear it adjust. If you don't, don't." That pretty much says it all.
Why not try it yourself and come back and let us know what you find out? Get a scale with some degree of accuracy and precision, say .01 gram +/- .005. Then take a reading at record level and one at 1/2" above (and below if you can). Keep in mind that by adjusting vtf you are changing the static location of the windings to the magnets. Biasing the circuit in a way. So it does not work against physics to suggest that minute changes in vtf can make a difference in the sound. This is probably not going to make any difference with some cartridges but it most definitely does with others. Now through in the mechanical action of the arm and bearings involved and you can see how there may be more or less resistance to slight changes in vtf from the stylus all the way back to the counterweight on the arm. It is all physics.
I don't think it is necessary to have a vtf guage that can measure to .01 in order to enjoy good playback, but it can be very useful with some equipment. And you don't need to spend $800 on the Winds. That $95 guage being sold here by ANS works very well.
I've had the pleasure of hearing Doug's rig. It sounds wonderful with any record. I have also heard the difference on some records when he makes minute changes to VTA. There is a very noticeable improvement. Not all pressings show this but the ones that do show it it very will. Granted this doesn't speak to vtf changes but I have no doubt that the table/arm/cart combo he is using is capable of showing what differences these slight changes can make.
"If you hear it adjust. If you don't, don't." That pretty much says it all.