reserve vta solves issue on zyx, triplaner

thanks Richard and Doug

I used a Feikert protractor

I'm tracking around 1.8.

the cartridge appears nearly level on the top, but very little clearance underneath, as the cantilever is riding high (tending upward). the arm is definitely low to the back by a good 1/4 inch (when the vta sweet spot is hit).

that's why I couldn't find the vta spot before

I'm a bit concerned about the low clearance of the cartridge over the record. It appeared to be higher before

I'm considering sending my triplaner in for the micro vta adjustment but I am using the added rings triplaner tip

Anyone setting up a tonearm should think about getting the Mint. I haven't used the Feikert, however, I have such confidence in the Mint, I surely would recommend its use.

Audiotomb, adjusting the pivot-to-spindle to the specified 233.5mm has made a ginormous improvement for my Triplanar/Universe/Raven AC setup. I can't jump up and down yelling too much about it. Maybe the most amazing thing I have ever done to tweek in my system.

Useing the supplied Triplanar alignment tool I thought my set up was good. But I was off by over 2mm on the pivot-to-spindle distance. I am now confident that it is with in .5mm.

What a difference. What a difference!

I have only given my mintlp protractor a once over but it looked pretty good so I think I am indeed very close.

Make sure your pivot-to-spindle distance is in speck.

TD

Dear Tom: you posted: +++++ " three sounded very shrill in the high end
no amount of vta would cure this " +++++

and now you posted: +++++ " he suggested readjusting by lowering the back of the arm " +++++

I can't understand what you really mean it: in your first thread you say " no amount on VTA would cure... " +++++ and today you say that with a VTA change everything is ok: could you explain a little about?

+++++ " I'm a bit concerned about the low clearance of the cartridge over the record " +++++

this is not a problem you have to woory.

Now not all the cartridges from one model ( any manufacturer ) are exactly the " same " , it could be a little differences between them each one.

The TDaudio advise is something to verified but if you use the Feikert protractor I could think is rigth.

+++++ " and get lucious sound again... " +++++

this is what it counts, if you already achieve a top quality cartridge performance then you are " there ": congratulations!

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

I have found that when i lighten up the VTA i loose to much sound stage, 3d sound and image. I am beginning to believe that this combo is dependent on what turntable used. I had the combo on my Aries 3 set up, my UNIverse had over 1000 hrs on it and i was easily able to track in the 1.65 area with out any problems and had total enjoyment listening to music. When i changed tables to Redpoint i found that at those lower settings i was not enjoying the sound and music as well. I slowly started increasing VTF till i got in the 2.00 to 1.95 area and for me thats where i have VTF for the best sound to my ears.

As for VTA i start out as level as i can determine and make small adjustments from there. And bring the adjustment in by ear for better sound.

The higher VTF is much better for my whole musical picture, i dont think there is a rule but what actually works for you and your gear. You have to make your mind up that until you make changes in your set up you will never know if you can get better sound or worse. It just has to be in small movements because UNIvers is so good that as Doug says when you find that window of sound you will surely know it.