Do I still need to buy a stylus force gauge if I can get the settings off the internet?

I would get a VTF gauge mainly for peace of mind. With an $800 cart, a $20 stylus gauge is negligible. I would take the recommended VTF as a starting point, then experiment +/- 0.1 grams and see how you like the sound. With my SoundSmith Zephyr I liked it best on the heavier side of recommended range. The Aphelion 2 sounds best to me with mean recommended setting.

Re antiskate, there is also the Wally Skater tool. A bit pricy, though.

And then there is also the question of how to set your phono-stage loading. I see mainly 47 kOhm and 100 pF for the MP-500. Again, a starting point, then experiment.

Why didn’t you ask AI if stylus force gauge is necessary? And if you did, what answer did you get?

Go for it!

Amazon.com: DIGITNOW Digital Turntable Stylus Force Scale Gauge 0.01g/5.00g,Tracking Force Pressure Scale for Tonearm Phono Cartridge, Blue LCD Backlight : Musical Instruments

Since folks are recommending a stylus gage, how do the markings on the turntable adjustment compare to a stylus gage reading to those that have used one?