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Why use a super accurate cartridge protractor

In discussions about cartridge setup, there are those who say that unless one has a cartridge setup protractor like the Mint, Wally Tractor, Dennesen, etc. one cannot expect to extract maximum performance from your rig. Then there are those that say that even the best alignment tool still only nets you a position that needs further tweaking by ear. In my case, I've used a Dennesen and a number of downloadable free protractors and have been able to get good results with the free downloads if I took my time to make those little .5mm shifts that make sound pop into best focus. Is the superiority of a Mint or a Wally Tractor because one doesn't have to make those final last tiny adjustments? Is it that the mirror surface is easier on the eyes?
photon46

Showing 3 responses by thekong

thekong
203 posts
 

Hi Nandric, I agree with you that we should also worry about the max. distortion, actually maybe more so than the min distortion, as it is already quite small.
thekong
203 posts
 
I have a Graham Phantom arm, which comes with the cartridge set-up jig. While I don’t have the jig in front of me, IIRC, there are 2 markings (for 2 different alignment curves) roughly around 1mm apart, which is a big difference considering the precision level members are talking about here.

Now, as John Gordon and Dertonarm pointed out in another thread (if I understand correctly), which alignment curve to choose really depends on the inner and outer radii of the groove area, as well as the music piece and, of course, the users’ preference.

So, I really fail to see the need for an ultra precision alignment protractor, as the “best alignment” is probably different for different LPs and individual users. Taking the Phantom arm, I suppose even if I “misaligned” the cartridge and placed it somewhere in between the 2 markings, I would just get slightly different null points than the 2 standard alignment curves. This might, or might not, be a good thing depends on the LP played.

Am I missing anything?
thekong
203 posts
 
Hi Dertonarm, if I understand correctly, the alignment you chose aimed at minimizing distortion at the last 1/3 of the groove’s radius, which I think make a lot of sense, as the inner tracks are inherently harder to track, and in addition, many of the classical pieces have the climax towards the end.

What I wonder is the need for ultra precision in the alignment. If I am using a 9” arm, and misalign by, say 0.5mm, then how far would the null points shift?

Best regards,
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