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Has anyoe had problems using the mint LP tractor

I have just spent about 2 or 3 hours trying to reset my cartridge using my newly acquired Mint LP Tractor and quite frankly I have found the whole experience very frustrating. I have put it down to inexperience on my part and aging eyesight........... surely I can't be the only person who has experienced difficulties, although reading the various threads here on the tractor it's beginning to look like I am!!! I intend having another attempt in a day or so, in the meantime any advice from the 'professionals' would be welcome.
wes4390
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Great, Rgurney! I owned a 2.2 for about 1 1/2 years so I'm familiar with the Graham setup jig. I wish I had a Mint back then.
mordante
511 posts
 
Sorry to go a bit of topic. I am interested in the mint LP tractor. However I'm a bit worried. I have never ever setup a tonearm myself, is it newbie friendly? My other concern is that I might want to upgrade my JMW9 to a JMW9 sig one day. Will I still be able to use the mint LP tractor?
thom_at_galibier_design's avatar
thom_at_galibier_design
729 posts
 
Hi Mordante,

You may have an "easier" time by starting with a Mint (or any arc protractor) - at least easier in the sense of an easier time getting it right.

The level of precision achievable by the Mint means that anyone using it will be fiddling around quite a bit. Differences of .2mm pivot to spindle distance will be apparent, and will frustrate you until you get the "grok" of how to use it.

For someone who has never aligned a cartridge, learning how to use a 2-point protractor will its own source of grief. You'll have difficulty visualizing how to approach the adjustment - whether the pivot to spindle distance needs correction, the effective length (fore/aft movement in the headshell) or offset angle (rotation in the headshell).

To a certain extent, understanding a two-point protractor will confuse you even more than an arc protractor will. Two-point protractors can confuse even the experienced user.

So, starting with the Mint is the way to go ... might as well pay your dues learning how to use a great tool instead of a merely adequate one.

And ... yes, the Mint uses Baerwaald alignment. It checks out against the arc protractors I prototyped last year.

Cheers,
Thom
srwooten's avatar
srwooten
694 posts
 
Mordante-
If you can set up your cart using the VPI jig then you'll do fine with the Mint. It takes more time and patience, but if you follow Yips instructions and tips you should be fine. The same Mint is for both arms and will truly improve your set up.
jazzgene
145 posts
 
I just rec'd my Tractor for the VPI 10.5i arm. I'll have to find some quality time this weekend to get into it.

With the proper lights and the magnifiers, I hope to get it going without too much hair loss. I can see right away that the VPI jig is very different alignment wise from the Mint.

I'll post with results soon.
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