VTA for a Dynavector 20X2L

The OP requested an optimal starting point for VTA. M18764ag's response was spot-on and I (who adjust VTA/SRA for every LP that I play) second it wholeheartedly. Wise guidance adapts to the situation and needs of the audience.

Cleeds' response was a non-sequitar and its haranguing, lecturing tone unproductive. One can wax enthusiastic and demonstrate one's knowledge without insulting other posters.

@Austinbob- Not to be contentious, but- while having the tonearm parallel with the record is always THE place to start, VTF(too much or too little) can take VTA/SRA out of optimal angle easily. The Dyna's compliance of 12x10-6cm/dyn, isn't terrible low(not stiff). By all means- start with the tonearm parallel, but also take a close look at your stylus, and attempt to adjust it perpendicular to the record groove, assuming you're not trying to achieve the(purportedly) optimum 92 degree SRA(which can be much more involving). Of course- the last step should be spinning vinyl, making adjustments and letting your ears be the final arbiters. Happy listening!

You might find this article informative/instructive: (http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/vinyl/messages/1240.html) This hobby SHOULD be fun!

Rodman99999, that's a great link you provided to the Jon Risch article. It really cuts through a lot of the mumbo-jumbo often associated with cartridge alignment.

And you are right, of course, that our hobby should be fun. Otherwise, what's the point of it all?

I think Risch's real pièce de résistance on phono cartridge alignment is the article "More than one VTA" (also a shared credit with Maier) which was published in the March, 1981 edition of Audio magazine. It's worth seeking out in a library. It's a more detailed article than the one you linked, and includes drawings that make the geometry explicitly clear.

Sometimes its very difficult to find what horizontal is. The SME V prints a horizontal line on the arm...very useful. The are arms that are not all that easy. Horizontal is a good place to start if it can be found.