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what is the problem with too much tracking force?

I have a Lyra Delos on a Michell Tecnodec.  The dealer set it up for me.  2 years later, I would like to learn to do this myself.  I bought the MOFI Geo Disc alignment tool, a digital stylus scale, a powerful magnifier, and an ultrasonic stylus cleaner.  I am ready to up my game with my vinyl hobby.  I was on the sidelines too long!

The first thing I did was to weigh the VTF with the scale with my table set up as it has been for a couple of years.  It came in at 1.95g.  The Lyra documentation suggests 1.75, so clearly I am tracking too heavy.  Before I correct this, what is the issue?  Is there something I should look for when I change it to 1.75?

Any advice before I do this adjustment would be much appreciated!
marktomaras
kevp1958's avatar
kevp1958
1 posts
 
I have been having problems with tracking I have a SURE M75ED cartridge but have fitted a 
Dreyer and Kauf replacement stylus but have found that if I try to track at1.5 grams or less many of my records stick but if I track at around 2 grams the sound is very good and plays through without sticking should I be worried about tracking at 2 grams ?
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,475 posts
 
Marktomarus.....are you sure your scale is correct at the height you measured the tracking force.   That force will vary if the arm is higher or lower to the platter/record.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,475 posts
 
nandric.....I would suppose cartridge manufacturers check parts sent to them and have the ability to accept or reject those that wouldn't work as to the designer's performance standards.
dover
2,250 posts
 
In the case of moving coil cartridges too much tracking force will mean that the coils are operating more in the non linear range of motion ( by non linear I mean there are non linearities in the induced signal from the coil and magnet at the extreme edges of motion ) and increase distortion; unless there is no suspension like the Ikeda cantilever-less cartridges. 
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,101 posts
 
Dear @kevp1958: You are using an after market stylus replacement that not necessary means is similar to the original that runs at 1.5grs. You need to ask the stylus after market source to know which is its VTF range.

Normally after market replacement does not meet cartridge original specifications.

Now too much VTF or too less/lower VTF means you are making a non-reversible LP damages.

@stringreen this thread comes from 2016.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.


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