Tracking Force Gauges

Hi Andrew,

Just so happens that I received my order of this scale in time to take it with me to Denver. I didn't do any actual VTF measurements with it, but Thom and I did compare the readings to his scale and also test the metal with a pretty strong magnet. Based on what we say I feel confident in saying that we all have absolutely nothing to fear. I used the calibration weight in my kitchen in New Hampshire and got a reading of 5.001. In Thom's basement in Denver I got a reading of 5.006. Pretty good considering the differences in altitude and weather.

SirSpeedy, I'm not sure what you were referring to specifically in some of your comment on the build. Now that I have one I can hold in my hands I'll look back through your posts and see if I can pick out what you meant.

In all, I'm very happy with this scale. I plan on doing some actual VTF measurements tonight when I get home. for those that have a scale that works for them I can't see the need to buy one just for the sake of it. But if you are in the same situation like I was of still searching for a good way to get repeatable VTF then the just could be exactly what you're looking for.

I received my gauge from Singapore as well. I am completely satisfied with it's appearance and construction for the low sum of $95.00 delivered.

Tomorrow night is music night, we plan on testing two or three different stylus force gauges, once the Walker is warmed up.

Lloyd Walker himself will be here in a few days, I plan on getting his opinion too.

For those that did not read my earlier post, I have the 1/100ths gram version of the Winds for reference.

Guys,

Thanks. I ordered one a couple of weeks ago but haven't received it yet. I'm glad that everyone is happy with it. I like the fact that its range is only 5g, its accurate, and non magnetic.

QUESTION:

Many have said that it's important to measure the VTF at record level. Instead of making platfroms and jigs, etc, what about increasing the VTA by roughly the height of the scale. I guess this should only be done if you have a ultra-reproducible VTA adjustments.

PS, Dan I'm looking forward to your Denver trip report.

Andrew

I'm confused by repeated comments about VTA. The platform on the Winds and this less expensive gauge from Singapore both have platforms that are about the same thickness of an LP.

Are you guys leaving the LP on the platter and placing the gauge on top to get VTA off enough to be a problem?

Great posts,by many of you "reliable" guys!!

Just to clear up some of my comments regarding the Build of the Singapore guage,which I DO own,and like enough to have given away(for free,btw)my Audio Parts guage(another nice one,too),my concern about build was only in reference to my friend Sid's Winds guage.It is built like a tank(the Winds).I know the "Singapore special" is alot less money,but I'll bet it costs next to nothing to manufacture,and even at 95 bucks,they could have made it a bit more robust in the density of the plastic.It is SOLEY my little gripe,and taste.
It is clearly "the" guage to have,based on the performance,and it was me who felt my friends should go in on one,with me.Trust me,it was NOT an easy "sell" to them!!Well we did,and ALL like it.
I'm really glad all of you like it as well,as you are some of the nicest hobbyist types I've ever corresponded with.

I'm especially happy that Albert feels it is a good value,since he has the FABULOUS Winds!!Then again Albert seems to have "the fabulous everything"!

Best!