Test LP's Worth it?

I agree with Dougdeacon to get the Mint or Wally Tractor. have both for my arm. There is little to choose between them. Get a lighted magnifier to aid setup.

In addition, I would a decent digital scale to measure tracking force as well as something like the KAB Speedstrobe to set the turntable speed. I would rate these three tools as more important than a test record.

Next, VPI makes an Aluminum Rod that is handy for initial setting of azimuth. Any light straight object can be substituted. Same with Wally VTA Gauge I use to set initial VTA. Mark 1 Eyeball and a index card is a less expensive alternative :)

As for test records, I use three. I have the Cardas one because my Wally Analog Shop uses some test tones from it in setting Azimuth. I use the Hi-Fi News one for general set up, as well as the Telarc Omnidisc.

I finalize setup by adjusting by ear while playing my favorite LP's

I absolutely hate setting up cartridges. The one good thing about it is that once setup is done, it generally sticks. I check everything a couple of times a year just to make sure.

I'll check out these protractors. I already have a digital scale for tracking force. I've heard (don't know if it's true) that each Mint Protractor is set up for a specific table. I have an older Well Tempered Classic table (square motor). I think it's great, but the azimuth settings can be a bit tricky.

The Mint LP Protractor is designed for a specific tone arm i.e. Spindle to pivot distance.

For azimuth, instead of using a metal rod like VPI provides, I use a 6inch length of raw spaghetti. It is nice and straight and light. Once the cartridge head shell is level, adjust azimuth by ear.

Now that I think about it, my Well Tempered Classic came with it's own protractor...

Mark 1 Eyeball and a index card is a less expensive alternative

For azimuth, instead of using a metal rod like VPI provides, I use a 6inch length of raw spaghetti.

Now those are my kind of setup tools!