I finally get it!


I had a long  discourse with VPI after I bought my new Classic 3 Sig SE years ago. The subject was that the S2P distance was off. After over one year of trying to get this resolved, I still received my tt back with this distance 1 mm (long).

I always wondered why there was no forthcoming measurement of the S2P distance. After all, VPI is know to have customers DIY their own tts, based on VPI's own products.

So, VPI offers their set-up jig with new tts. They don't offer any specific measurements for S2P. Someone had to ask on their forums in order to find out. Why?

I now know why. Because, their manufacturing was/is not very precise. So, if their S2P distance was off when the tt left their shop, their own jig (provided) would still keep the S2P distance in a (good enough) range. 

Nice try/trick.
128x128slaw
@tooblue ,

It was 2 mm short.

Many people including Mat say this isn't an issue. I say they are wrong. My ears confirm this. I read a while back that Mat said he's made a new jig to address this.
@slaw Go to turntablebasics.com and look at alignment tools. They have a lot of good info about tonearm alignment on their site which may be helpful to you.
Few audiophiles are going to bother to look because their stuff is too cheap. But the info on their site is correct. Their 20 buck protractor is very good and precise, and can be ordered in 2 spindle sizes and with Baerwald or Loftgren B alignment. No need to spend $250.
The definitive reference on tonearm alignment was an article in Stereophile by Keith Howard. It can be found by searching for: stereophile optomizing tonearm geometry. Read and learn.