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The best phono cartridge alignment tool

The best phono cartridge alignment tool.  Can anyone recommend a phono cartridge alignment tool that:

- Has both horizontal and vertical (azimuth) alignment

-  isn't that complex to use

-  is under $300?

Some of the phone cartridges I'm interested aren't available in my area so professional set-up is not an option.  If I'm going to spend $2K to $4K on a cartidge I really need to make sure I nail the installation.  thanks.

 

russellrcncom
wlutke
740 posts
 

Here’s a tip for finding the pivot on a Rega and some other arms when using the Feickert. With the arm on the lift I place a 3/8” square of sticky note with a dot in the center over the pivot. With the Feickert pointer over the dot, I’ll swing the arm towards the spindle. If the dot moves from under the pointer, I missed.

rdk777's avatar
rdk777
578 posts
 
The Feickert will do the job, but to nail the installation, you need the SmarTractor. The SmarTractor is a lot more accurate than the Feickert - I have owned both and my statement is based on results and the fact that the SmarTractor is Vernier calibrated. However, you have to decide whether it's worth spending the extra cash to justify or not (~ x2) and how often you will change cartridges/tonearms/table. The SmarTractor will be the last protractor you will need.
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cleeds
6,041 posts
 
wlutke

 

Here’s a tip for finding the pivot on a Rega and some other arms when using the Feickert. With the arm on the lift I place a 3/8” square of sticky note with a dot in the center over the pivot. With the Feickert pointer over the dot, I’ll swing the arm towards the spindle. If the dot moves from under the pointer, I missed.

That's a great trick! With some arms, it is difficult to locate the exact pivot point - this solves it!

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