Which Digital Level Gauge to buy?

The problem with phone-based levelling apps is that the case of the phone is neither perfectly flat nor necessarily parallel with the internal gyroscope. It certainly isn't on my Moto Droid with its sliding keyboard and slightly bulged battery cover. ;)

The internal gyro may be "perfectly" level but that's of little use if the back of the phone is non-flat and/or non-parallel to the gyro.

I use a cheap but well made bubble level. The key is to use it properly. Check the spot you're interested in, then spin the level 180 degrees and check again. Reversing the level doubles the visibility of any error. Only when the bubble is centered with the level pointing in EITHER direction is the surface level (along that orientation). Never trust any level without doing this. A decent bubble level used this way (as machinists do) can produce pretty accurate results. Expensive tools are good, good technique is better. :)

Dougdeacon.
I agree with your comments.
Certainly about the phone apps.
That's why I would love to find a level table to see how accurate this app/phone is.
And yes, you really can get a good result from a bubble level but I would suggest not nearly close to a good electronic devise.
Since purchasing my SME 20/12A and Soundsmith Strain Gauge cartridge I have become acutely aware of how the slightest changes in geometry and level radically affect the sound.
With this kind of money invested I feel that a couple of hundred bucks more to ensure a precise level is money well spent.
Technique is king...but a great tool used correctly is the ultimate solution in the end. And which of us doesn't love a great tool :-)

We're all great tools on this forum!

the way I see it is if the turntable and platter are not perfectly level, all of the other settings are compromised in one way or another, especially on a unipivot arm. I questioned the expense when ordering the cartridge man, bit after receiving it and using it, is now indispensable. I also use it to set up my record cleaning machine, a Loricraft.

"I also use it to set up my record cleaning machine, a Loricraft." .... good grief