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Checking Anti-Skate?

Does anyone know of an anti-skate measuring device? Years ago, I obtained an "unpressed" LP. No grooves. This would allow me to put the turntable in rotation, lower the tonearm, and basically watch whether the tonearm would skate in either direction on the vinyl surface. I would make anti-skate adjustments accordingly until the arm would remain stable. It worked.

Then, I lent it somebody. You know that story.

Is there something out there I don't know about that would allow me to fine tune anti-skate?

I use a DB protractor for cartridge alignment, a Shure stylus pressure gauge, and a laser for setting VTA.

Help me out here guys, Thanks.
128x128buscis2
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
5 grams was the recommended downforce for the GE pickup (Monophonic) that was commonly used in the 1950's. Other pickups were similar. 5 grams was easy to set because a US Nickle coin is 5 grams, exactly. You could calibrate your finger with the coin and then put the pickup on the finger.
buscis2's avatar
buscis2 OP
468 posts
 
Eldartford, What would that tracking weight convert to in pennies?

And is there such a thing as Audiophile quality nickels? Like maybe cryo treated? : )
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
Buscis2...Back then there were enough real improvements to be made that people didn't need to get worked up over magic speaker wire and cryogenicly processed wall outlets.
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
In perusing a catalog I happened to note that pickups designed for DJs still track at 5 to 6 grams. Of course DJs do terrible things to their pickups so they need to be built like tanks.
buscis2's avatar
buscis2 OP
468 posts
 
It almost like turning your turntable into a record lathe. I wonder if you see small vinyl shavings curling up behind the stylus while your tracking at that pressure? : )
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