Fidelity Research FR64s Headshell dilemma

@karl_desch 
No - the problem is that cartridges do not have a standard distance between stylus tip and mounting holes. Similarly headshells vary in their length and postion on holes/slots. So when you push the P2S out you will get this problem from time to time. With the 231.5 P2S on the FR64S I have used the Orsonic 101, Ikeda, Denon PCL300 headshells and had no problems. I'm pretty sure the Sumiko headshell should get you there as well. On some headshells with a collet type connection for asimuth adjustment you can puah the shell out a little further without losing rigidity.

Dear Nandric, ignoring ego would be a great first step....

Oyaide HS CF is also a good one if you need the extra head(shell)room. But this is a low mass carbon fiber shell. So maybe not the best choice for the 64s, unless you have the W-170 counter weight to compensate.

Karl, I heretofore was under the impression that the distance of 230 mm was the original recommended pivot to spindle distance for the FR 64S, which implies it is for Stevenson alignment. The distance of 231.5 mm was recommended to me by a well-known guru who shall remain nameless, and I assumed he was assuming I would use Baerwaldt alignment. Therefore I have gone through life since then in the belief that 231.5 mm was the choice for Baerwald and 230 mm was the choice for Stevenson. It certainly is the pivot to spindle distance originally recommended by Ikeda. Note there are two assumptions involved. Raul has corrected me on this thread and noted that the distance of 231.5 mm can be used for either alignment. And I think he is correct.

You can run either alignment, Stevenson or Baerwald, at either P2S. The only issue is cartridges with an integrated headshell like the FR7 because you cant alter their angle in the shell.
Furthermore, because the FR64S does not have offset bearings there is no advantage in having the cartridge straight in the headshell.
I have run Baerwald at both 230 & 231.5 - I can hear the difference, it is subtle, but the tracking angle error is reduced at the 231.5 - the sound is smoother and more integrated.
The original reason for 231.5 was as much as due to the balance of the arm and to minimise what is described as "break torque" as it was for alignment purposes.