Graham tonearm tweaking

Thanks sirspeedy, no further questions (except for one at the end of this post), just want to express my gratitude. You've written volumes here and I appreciate your desire to avoid having to repeat yourself. It’s probably obvious I’m a novice but I understand what you have just said and it’s quite helpful. Already knew how to check the level with the “dipstick”, just wasn’t sure what level to start with. Your explanation of how to work from that level is clear. I added a bit more and have it to a good starting point, just below half way up the square shaft. Previously it was just touching the square part (not enough fluid).

I also knew how to adjust azimuth, but was not sure how to see when it’s right. The mirror idea occurred to me, but using the test record this morning seemed to get it about right. I just tried the mirror and was able to see the stylus didn’t look quite vertical so made a fine tuning adjustment. Will test by ear again with the test record. The mirror works well.

Speaking of the test record, I found the inner most tracking ability test gave my setup problems. It was fine with the center and outer ones. Changing the azimuth slightly seemed to help some, but my arm/cartridge still had problems with the tracking ability test closest to the center of the record. The overhang adjustment template that attaches to the cartridge (what a convenient way to make this adjustment) has a choice of two points to line the stylus tip over. Position 1 for the standard “Seagrave/Baerwald” positions, while 2 is the “alternative Loefgren which is said to provide improved overall distortion at the expense of slightly increased peak distortion at the beginning and end of the record.” Since I used a point half way between 1 and 2 thinking I might get the best of both, this could have been the cause of the distortion I heard (very noticeable) on the inner test tracking ability test. I’ve since moved the stylus tip to position 1 and now the inner-tracking test is handled with no problems. This improvement might also be due to increased damping with the now higher fluid level

Finally one question, is the wobbly nature of the Graham typical of unipivot arms and hence there is probably nothing wrong with mine?

Larry,I'm "SOLD"!!Better pray that this is all confirmed when this "Breakthrough" design,as you infer,starts to get some serious exposure ,other than via the internet.PS-I assume it was you,whom Salvatore was referring to.

I have taken your word on this,as you seem experienced,and sincere, and recommended the lesser models to one friend.He will probably get a zyx 2 or 3.

My "YODA" pal is in BIG TIME with some of the "HOITY TOITY" crowd,who are sceptical about the UNIV. as being the second coming.With these guys,they usually like to knock something they haven't discovered themselves.Especially since this line is controlled by one guy,well intentioned or not.I will get "KILLED" by these guys,if your comments don't pan out in time,as I've done somethimg I've learned not to do.I've created "BUZZ" by someone's(YOURS IN THIS CASE)comments to me.So I may have to move down to FLA. a little earlier than planned if the UNIV. is not the "MEGA" design you and others claim it to be!!

That being said,I do have very good credibility with him,as I have helped him out,in the past,with his own system issues.I'll keep pitching the Univ. if only,at least,for him to take a good look at, before making any final decisions.Although with the limited exposure here,I can't see how this could be done.

The previous offers of other hobbyists allowing an audition are incredibly nice,but unless heard in our own set-ups can't tell much!!

Thanks!!

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Sirspeedy,
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Email me off line with your phone number if you would like me to give you a call.
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Rgds,
Larry
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Larry,thanks,but it would be hard to ascertain the quality of your set-up via tele.Ha!Ha!

I will contact you in the future,should I go down to Florida to visit my parents and inlaws.

Best wishes.

Jeff,The wobbly aspect is supposed to be there.To me,that is one reason unipivots are SO GOOD.Think "car suspension" here,with the pivotal nature(WOBBLE) coping with micro bumps and depressions in the groove,some dirt as well.Although there may be some responses to the contrary,and I can't proove anything,the opposite effect of the unipivot would sort of act like a plow through the groove.They work fine,but the unipivot design is a "KILLER".So don't worry!

Sounds like the damping fluid was too low,originally,and may have contributed to the distortion you heard.As I, and others, have stated previously,the stuff can make or break the ultimate performance of the arm. Also,make sure your anti-skate is where it should be.Check Graham instructions.Also,even though it's a pain in the tush,read all previous posts.If you want to grow in this hobby,then you can never get too much information.You can,also call Bob Graham.I have,in the past,with questions.He is a nice guy.

Although having a captive audience is nice,truthfully, I'm played out on this topic, of the tweaking of the arm.There are some very nice people that have responded to this thread,and you can find valuable info with many of them.Many seem to be far more experienced and capable than me.I've been at this hobby for 35 years or so,but,am constantly learning things.Don't be coy about trying something for yourself.

Anyway the 2.2 is a great product and should last a lifetime.I don't see any other arms,other than the very pricey and ergonomically difficult air bearing designs outperforming it to a great degree.If I ever get rid of mine that is the only direction I'd move in!

Good Luck!!