How to properly set up a turntable

mijostyn2,

Your very brief summary of correct setup is very helpful.and sensible.  The only addition I would make is that the perfectly parallel arm is the starting point from which minor deviations should be tried to find the optimal VTA setting by ear.  As for finding parallel, with most arms, you can used a ruled index card set behind the arm when it is in playing position on a record to see which way it tilts.

Peter Ledermann, the founder of Sound Smith, has a really good series of videos on setup that not only supplies the "how to" aspect of setup, but also the "why this is the way to do it" explanation.  These can be found by googling them.

@petg60. What is HTA?
Thanks

mglik, as others suggested, it can be a basic or a complex procedure.

The basic, as a bare minimum, would include 1) overhang and offset angle (the SmartTractor with noted caution), 2) VTF set to middle of mfg's recommended range, 3) adjust anti-skate (if available) to about 70% of tracking force value, 4) VTA generalized with tonearm parallel to record surface with stylus in groove, and 5) double check overhang was not changed by VTA adjustment.  This should allow listening enjoyment without worrying that you are damaging anything.

Then to learn more about a thorough set up look at Cartridge and Turntable Set Up links here - https://www.audioasylum.com/cgi/d.mpl?audio/faq.html  Also you can find multiple videos on YouTube.  Review both sets of information to become familiar with the process.  Then you can fine tune your basic set up with a more complete process.

Good luck and have fun.

dangcaonguyen

What is HTA?

Horizontal tracking angle.

Yes Larry, if you like playing around with VTA. It is a PITA to do that with most arms and most people do not want to play around with their table once it is set up. If you like playing around with VTA you need to get an arm with a VTA tower. 
I like the idea of using an index card to set the tonearm parallel. I have a very good eye for that kind of thing but I am sure many people will find that useful.
Cleeds, horizontal tracking angle is only important when your pleasing the wife:)