What LPs do you use for VTA adjustment


Hi. I'm a newbie to this forum, and also to VTA adjustment. Been making GROSS changes to my system over the past couple of weeks, which has resulted in my getting an SME V arm to replace the RB300 on my Voyd Valdi TT, at least for now. Now for the first time, I have an arm with adjustments.

My system was optimised to my budget in the mid 80s, during my TAN (The Audiophile Network - any members here?) days: Voyd TT, British/Musical Fidelity MVT preamp, 4 MA-50 poweramps (mono 50w Class A), Rogers Studio 1a speakers vertically bi-amped, Kimber PBJ and 4TC. My current cartridge is an original Vdh MC10. The only things that have changed over the years have been cartridges and CD players.

Been playing with the HFNRR test record for tracking and anti skating adjustments. Trying to figure out what all the fuss is about VTA. The 3 records I've tried so far are Ella & Louis "Together Again" MSFL Mono, Patricia Barber "Modern Cool" MSFL, and Air "Walkie Talkie". Other than making the cartridge mistrack when the rear of the arm got too low, I'm not sure if I've honed in on the sound changes. I'm probably being overwhelmed by how good it sounds relative to the RB300, especially in the bass.

Am i right in saying its not just VTA, but a combo of VTA and VTF that needs to be adjusted? When the rear of the arm is low, more weight makes it track again.

Can you guys/gals (if any here) recommend records and tracks that YOU use for VTA setup, and what you listen for.

Right now, with the stylus in the leadout groove, using the SME V ruler to the center line on the arm, front of the arm is at the trackout groove is 1cm above the LP, rear of the arm just after the leadin groove is 0.9cm - so rear is appx 1mm lower. Anyone have or remember what setting they use on the VdH MC10? VTF at 1.8 gms.

Any volunteers in Stamford, CT that want to lend me their ears?

Thanks, Samir.
gofast
If you want a simpler record, try CSN&Y Deja Vu'. Almost Cut My Hair is a good example. Use this one for the "air" around the guitars, dial in the VTA. This whole record is good for VTA. I have the origianl on Atlantic, which is very particular for VTA. I have not bought a MFSL copy yet, but will do soon.
Thanks. Keep the suggestions coming, I just dug out my copy of Stravinksy conducting the Firebird, and had a wonderful time listening to it. Its been years since I heard it last.
Rushton,
Thanks for posting that page by Lloyd Walker. I read it a year or two ago and then totally forgot he'd put it on his site. Mr. Walker explains it all more clearly than I could, which will surprise nobody of course.

Who conducts that 'Firebird' you referenced? I have a mono Mercury of Dorati conducting 'Petrouchka' and it's one of the half dozen best records I own, if a little noisy.
Dougdeacon, the Stravinsky Firebird is the Dorati performance with the LSO, but in stereo. The 45 rpm version is incredible. Both the 33 and 45 versions are still available from Acoustic Sounds. The 45 is at a premium price since they are out of print, but the 33 has been reissued by Classic and is available at regular price once again.
Thanks, Rushton. I'm glad to hear that, since I already have the 45. And I totally agree with your assessment.