Stylus force digital scales

dover

I do agree that the deviation in VTF with dynamically balanced arms will be less than statically balanced arms on warps, but don't agree that VTF can be precisely maintained over a warp even with dynamic balancing, unless of course you consider +- 50% precise.

Don't be silly. The effectiveness of dynamic balancing in achieving relatively constant VTF over warps can easily be observed by watching the deflection of the cartridge cantilever.

A 50 percent deviation from ideal VTF would cause serious mistracking with many cartridges.

You absolutely can use the inexpensive digital scales. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. I have been using this stylus gauge for the last year, it's $14 shipped.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XC2AQN4/

I have a set of calibration weights (I use the 1g and 500mg weights) that I use to check it is accurate, so far it's been perfect each time I have tested it. These kinds of measurements devices have been figured out some time ago, no need to spend a lot of money for a digital scale.

@jbny  unless you have calibration weights that are magnetic and non magnetic you will not see the effect we’ve been discussing

my scales all weigh the same with calibration weights, but once you use a MC cartridge it’s a different matter. And most of the China sourced metal ones read the same, no doubt because they share the same internal electronics. It’s only the custom designed plastic ones that give different results

now most setups will not be sensitive to +/- .05g VTF but unfortunately mine is, needing 1.70-1.75 exactly to perform at its best so I have no choice but to pay the $150 cost of entry for the Rega

I don't think it's an issue though. I had a friend bring over his Ortofon DS-3 and it read exactly the same with my cart. My Delos is supposed to be at exactly 1.72 for it's best, so I'm trying to make sure it's as accurate as possible.

Older Ortofon DS-1 is cheaper than DS-3
My DS-1 works fine and i like it, my ex new DS-3 was deffected and does not read the weight righ from the start. I think there is no need for DS-3 if DS-1 is available for much better price.