2. analog
  3. 169855-114388

Questions on Overhang/Cartridge Alignment using Dr Feikert Protractor on VPI Classic 3

So I recently bought a used VPI Classic 3 that came with a low hours Soundsmith Zephyr 2 cartridge.

I wanted to make setup as accurate as possible so I bought the Dr Feikert Protractor.
I first make sure that the Spindle to Pivot length was correct which I read online was supposed to be 258mm.

See pic below.


This was measured by taking off the tonearm and measuring exactly from the spindle to the bare sharp point of the unipivot point.
After that was done I mounted the cartridge to the arm and got the step 1 in perfect bullseye.



Step 2 however is where things get off.   I'm coming up about 2 mm long on step 2.



Step 3 is also off as its about 1.25 mm short of the line.

Here is a shot showing approximately the location of all 3 points.



Any ideas on what I can do to fix this where it hits all 3.   I'm at a loss being that the Spindle to Pivot point is right on at the 258mm length which i was told is correct for the VPI Classic tables.
Thanks for any assistance you can provide.
newguru
tablejockey
3,882 posts
 
What chakster suggests  is correct.

I use the Feikert for my Classic. After step 1 you must rotate the platter in order to align the cantilever with the grid in step 2/3.

Incidentally,  with the supplied VPI jig, I can't hear a  noticeable difference vs.  Feikert, though the science behind Baerwald suggests it's "better."
Try all 4(3,if you don't have the jig)and report back. Some owners insist the VPI jig is inferior.

It's a heck of a lot easier to use. Can't hear a difference with the anti skate as well.




mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 
I never looked at the Feikert closely but the grids are vague. I know the SmarTractor is something like twice as expensive but it is vastly superior and intuitive. I think most of you would not even have to read the instructions. Each alignment has it's own grid and there is a tiny detent where the stylus goes. The surface is mirrored. Seeing the cantilever from all angles is easy. I did not even have to use the magnifier. If you can see through to afford it, it is most definitely worth it. If you change cartridges frequently there is no better way to go.  

Good for you wlutke for figuring it out. It is all about overhang and offset angle.
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
Seeing the cantilever from all angles is easy. I did not even have to use the magnifier. If you can see through to afford it, it is most definitely worth it. If you change cartridges frequently there is no better way to go.


I don’t like the mirror surface on any protractor, you will see not only reflections of the cartridge and cantilever, but also reflections of the alignment lines on the protractor. I put my VdH mirror protractor to the garbage. The reason to avoid the mirror surface is pretty obvious!

I never looked at the Feikert closely but the grids are vague. I know the SmarTractor is something like twice as expensive but it is vastly superior and intuitive.

Do not comment on something you never tried yourself.
Dr. Feickert NG is great for all my cartridges and tonearms. The build quality is superb! Actually if step-1 is correct then you’re done. If you can see a white lines on black surface you don’t need anything else except for the flashlight (provided with a Feickert protractor).

I don’t use a magnifying glass during the alignment process (never).
billstevenson
352 posts
 
I have a glass mirror one, the Feikert one, paper ones, plastic templates, the VPI metal one etc. etc. etc....  In the imperfect world of warpped records, some with off-center holes, and arms that aren't made to spec and so on, in my experience the Feikert tool is the easiest to use and provides the most repeatable results of any.  It might not be perfect, but this is vinyl we're talking about.  If you want perfect, play yer CDs.
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 
@chakster, never comment on something you have never used yourself.
I have zero problems with the reflective surface of the SmarTractor. I suspect that is because it is perfectly flat. As for the Feikert I have looked at one closely just never bought one because it is vague and I never thought it was worth the money. It is not a fine tool. For decades I used the DB systems protractor. With some modification it is reasonably accurate and inexpensive.   The SmarTractor is a fine tool and I have used it. I can not imagine anyone doing it any better.
More to discover