Eminent Technology ET-2 Tonearm Owners

Hi Aguser - welcome to the thread.

03-30-14: Aguser
This seems to be a good place to ask this. I have an ET-2 on my VPI HW-19 MKIII. I have not had this very long so i am still getting it fine tuned. One thing i noticed was that when it gets near the inner grooves it will start to skip. The tonearm it not against the manifold but I think it is getting more resistance. Any suggestions to fix this?

Based on your info you sound like a new ET2 user who has just purchased the used ET2 and VPI combo. I was this exact same person over 10 years with a MKIV table and the same problem. In my case the previous owner did not know what to do so he sold the table. Assuming the wiring exits the arm at the counterweight cap and goes down through the plinth? In addition to what Frogman said I would perform these four steps. I believe your problem will be a combination of them. A very easy fix.

1) Ensure spindle is clean especially on the armtube side as this is the spindle portion in the manifold when at the inner grooves - isopropyl and clean cloth.

2) Platter not level - the back end is higher. The ET2 is climbing a hill. Is the VPI table plinth that the ET2 is on - in the same level plane as the platter itself ? For now Ignore the plinth and level the platter only. Place a line level on the platter portion path the cartridge takes - ensure its level.

3) ET2 not level - get some Blutack. http://www.blutack.com/
Make a flat pancake shape size of a silver dollar and place it on the lead weights. Remove or add Blue tack until the arm free floats. Does it stay free floating or does it want to slide to the front ? Position the ET2 at the start, middle and end of the record positions. Ensure the wires are not pulling on it when it is on the outside part of record; and pushing it like antiskate on a pivot arm, when on the inside part of the record.

Now adjust the bolts if not level. Its important to not put too much pressure downward on the two bolts as you may crack the casing. When I adjust these bolts I like to back off pressure on both vertical bolts first; and then re adjust pressure.
If the platter and ET2 are indeed level, and it still has a problem on inner grooves it is most likely the wires giving push back or the pump is down 1/2 psi if the original one ? This was my problem - the pump was down 1/2 psi.

4) Wires not positioned properly - they are pushing on the arm. They are causing the most push back on the inner groove because this is when they are most likely bent the most. I recommend you bypass those wires but for now re position them so that there is no pushback with the blutack in place when the arm is positioned over the inner grooves.

Let us know how you make out.

Cheers

(Holy Moly this thread is showing on my views page summary again - approaching 325,000 views)

Richardkrebs: I finally introduced the Jun-Air 6-25 into my system. I had it modified to allow the use of an additional air tank. I'm still using my tried and true Motorguard M-30 filter. The only thing that has changed was taking my Timeter PCS 414 (a compressor that runs constantly)out and putting the Jun-Air in. To my surprise there is additional openness/transparency now. This results in greater frequency extension, dynamics and transient response. These compressors run extremely quiet, around 45db, and are known for producing 'clean' air. I'm very happy with the results.

The difference I noticed comparing compressors is not night & day. It is however noticeable to me and I think a seasoned listener would notice. (This is a testament to how effective my Motorguard filter is) A lot of baby steps... in the end result in a more enjoyable, meaningful listening experience

Aguser, You will really do yourself a favor by taking to heart, Frogman & Ct0517's advice! My 'chiming in' on "leveling" is from 25+ years of experience with this arm. It does not hurt to level everything then "re-level". No kidding. Purchase an 'accurate' level. Don't take for granted that VPI, for instance, has provided you with a product that is "spot on". VPI out-sources their products to manufacturers that perform their duties to a certain "price" standard. This standard is no more than the "you get what you pay for" standard. I assume that now you have purchased the VPI Mk 3 and the ET, you are passionate about audio reproduction in your home. The purchase of the ET represents a forgone conclusion that you are and have every intention of reproducing excellent audio reproduction in your listening room. This tonearm is the equivelant of a long term relationship. One that will reward you by the more time/care/love that you are willing to put into it.

If I had this forum available to me 25 years ago, I'd be a different person. You have, right now, all the information regarding this arm available to you for your pleasure. All you have to do is take it to heart.