Checking Anti-Skate?


Does anyone know of an anti-skate measuring device? Years ago, I obtained an "unpressed" LP. No grooves. This would allow me to put the turntable in rotation, lower the tonearm, and basically watch whether the tonearm would skate in either direction on the vinyl surface. I would make anti-skate adjustments accordingly until the arm would remain stable. It worked.

Then, I lent it somebody. You know that story.

Is there something out there I don't know about that would allow me to fine tune anti-skate?

I use a DB protractor for cartridge alignment, a Shure stylus pressure gauge, and a laser for setting VTA.

Help me out here guys, Thanks.
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Onhwy61, I actually use a 360 degree rotary builders level. I place it on the rack next to the turntable, set the height of the laser to the centerline of the tonearm (at the gimbal), then raise or lower the back of the arm, setting VTA. I can then confirm the adjustments by tilting the head of the builders level to match the angle of the tonearm. It then provides me with a measurement in degrees.

It is incredibly accurate. Although my ears are what actually confirm my adjustments, the laser is a great way to dial it in and get you in the ballpark.

And, you are not going to answer my question or just don't have any info on a measuring device?

I'm always nice to you......??????
Also, testing on a blank disc is invalid. Skating force is related to groove pressures/overhang. What you see with a blank disc is merely centrifugal force.
Sidssp, I know it's not right. But at the time, it was the only method I had. That's why I'm looking for a measuring device. Does one exist?
The skating setting is always a compromise between the lead and final grooves. I set mine by hovering the tonearm over the middle of the LP, raising and lowering the arm to see what direction it wants to go, then setting the skating where it tends to remain stationary. The stylus never even touches the record. Not precise, but hey, it's vinyl!
In the old days a table manual always said to adjust the VTF to the mfg specs than use the same setting for anti-skate. Problem being that neither of the dials were very accurate.

I use a test record but you can also come close by looking at the stylus/cantilever head on through a magnifying glass while playing a record. Check to see if it is perpedicular to the record or if it is leaning one way or the other. You can use the edge of the cartridge as a guide if you KNOW that the edges are perpendicular to the headshell and the azimuth is dead on. Otherwise, try to see if it is straight up and down to the record and then dial it in by ear.