Basis Vector 4 arm question

I have the Vector 3 tone arm on my Basis TT, and have experimented with using different amounts of silicon fluid in the well, and to me the most balanced sound comes from when the fluid was at the bottom of the radial bearing as the instruction (AJ) told me to do. I find that when I have the arm sitting level on the sharp pointed stem, the flat surface underneath the arm should just touch the surface of the silicone fluid.. It shouldn't be submerged and drenched in the fluid.

The amount that AJ recommends should be the minimum amount to use. You can experiment with more but I wouldn't recommend using less.

I agree with Gslone and Dre, the Vector has to have damping fluid to work properly. Start with just enough to reach that vertical bearing.

Thanks for your responses,cartridge is a Koetsu red,I think maybe I need to experiment with the level,I am happy with VTA and VTF,azimuth is fixed,it's just a tad bright on some tracks,which I never noticed with the Koetsu on my previous VPI SSM.

Azimuth is adjusted for a level headshell at the factory. The adjustment location is on the lower right side of the pivot location toward the front. It's hidden below the rim of the damping fluid cup. I would not suggest adjusting it unless you are comfortable doing so. The adjustment if very sensitive as well.

If the koetsu is slightly bright, the two parameters I'd check would be VTA and phonostage loading. That is if you are sure VTF is correct, the alignment is right, the cartridge is secure in the headshell, and the damping fluid covers the bottom of the arm.