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Cartridge Set Up Essentials

Just wondering what kit you consider "essential" for proper cartridge alignment for any/all turntables. What should every audiophile have on hand to be able to optimize cartridge set up regardless of turntable brand? For each piece of kit please comment on ease of use and consistency of results. For example, I purchased a MINT Tractor many years ago to use with my VPI Scout and found it very difficult to use--lots of eye strain and uncertain outcomes. Let's hear it!
128x128dodgealum
agrippa
160 posts
 
MINT Tractor and a pair of 3-4X reading glasses (to obviate the use of a lupe).
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Did own MINT and threw it away. SMARtractor is pretty good.
Also Dennesen Protractor.
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
Dr. Feickert latest protractor, nothing else. This is a tool for every tonearm and every cartridge/turntable with all 3 alignment method on it to choose one you like. The most important: it have precise pivot to spindle ruler. It's German quality and not so expensive, some others cost more. The best way is to buy used Feickert if the price for a new is too much for you. 

Then a Hi-Fi Test LP and Cardas Frequency Sweep LP. 

Ortofon DS-1 digital scale

Good light and good tools 

I don't need anything else
agrippa
160 posts
 
Did own MINT and threw it away.

Because?
nandric's avatar
nandric
4,086 posts
 
The writings of our beloved Syntax are an curious mix of Kantian
categorical imperatives and Monty Python's humor.
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