1: Set it to 50k although you probably wouldn't hear much difference between 40k and 50k. You could try both positions and stick with the one that sounds best to you.
2: tracking weight affects the ability of the stylus to track the record groove without distortion or skipping. It should not alter the frequency balance significantly. If you want to err on the high side of the recommended force I'd go to 1.6 or maybe 1.7, but not higher than that because raising the weight excessively could damage both the cartridge suspension and your records.
3: Recommended VTA angles vary from cartridge to cartridge. Some cartridges like to have the arm tipped up at the rear while other cartridges prefer the opposite. Either way, it shouldn't be too far from level while playing the record. Check with the cartridge manufacturer for their specific recommendation for your particular cartridge. Generally, MM cartridges are less sensitive to VTA issues than MC cartridges but proper adjustment can still make an audible difference.
4: You can also check the alignment of the cartridge with an alignment gauge to ensure minimal tracking error.
5: It wouldn't hurt to check the speed of the platter with a strobe disc if your tt has provision for speed adjustment.
6: The turntable's suspension and the type of rack and location of the rack (in the room) that supports the turntable can make significant differences in the way the turntable performs.
You should try to locate and read articles on proper turntable setup if you really want quality results. A lot of folks get subpar performance from their turntables because their attention to detail is poor, or they have overlooked some vital aspect of proper setup...
2: tracking weight affects the ability of the stylus to track the record groove without distortion or skipping. It should not alter the frequency balance significantly. If you want to err on the high side of the recommended force I'd go to 1.6 or maybe 1.7, but not higher than that because raising the weight excessively could damage both the cartridge suspension and your records.
3: Recommended VTA angles vary from cartridge to cartridge. Some cartridges like to have the arm tipped up at the rear while other cartridges prefer the opposite. Either way, it shouldn't be too far from level while playing the record. Check with the cartridge manufacturer for their specific recommendation for your particular cartridge. Generally, MM cartridges are less sensitive to VTA issues than MC cartridges but proper adjustment can still make an audible difference.
4: You can also check the alignment of the cartridge with an alignment gauge to ensure minimal tracking error.
5: It wouldn't hurt to check the speed of the platter with a strobe disc if your tt has provision for speed adjustment.
6: The turntable's suspension and the type of rack and location of the rack (in the room) that supports the turntable can make significant differences in the way the turntable performs.
You should try to locate and read articles on proper turntable setup if you really want quality results. A lot of folks get subpar performance from their turntables because their attention to detail is poor, or they have overlooked some vital aspect of proper setup...