2. analog
  3. 1391922013

Tool for measuring pivot to spindle distance?

My new cartridge is on its way. I am making sure I have all the necessary tools for setting up the tonearm and cartridge, and realized that I don't have a decent tool for measuring the pivot to spindle distance for the tonearm. All I have is a plastic ruler with mm measurements - not ideal to say the least!

I would love to get something like the Clearaudio Protractor or the Dennisen/Nerve Audio Protractors, but such tools are beyond my budget. Is there a less expensive alternative? For example, would a set of 12" digital calipers (with mm readings of course)work?

I see some calipers costing around $35 - great price - are they accurate enough at that price point? No doubt most of these are made in China, which may or may not be a problem.

My budget is not much - less than $50 would be ideal. Any advice would be appreciated.

Holly
oakiris
electroresearch
13 posts
 
Hi
I have a tool that I am looking to sell. its made by acoustical systems Germany. I can list it if you would like.
brf
1,715 posts
 
Electroresearch, post it for sale. There will be interest :-)
john_gordon
116 posts
 
Holly, I've replied to your post on VE. You don't actually need to know the P2S distance if you can easily adjust at the base, just a two point protractor.

Simply adjust the board with your protractor to set up the cartridge, like the SME. Just mount the cartridge square anywhere in the headshell and then adjust at the base until the nulls are correct.

If you want more tech info as to why this is the case, see point 2 in
this link here: common misconceptions about tonearms

John
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Thank you for your response here as well, John.

Maybe I will set up everything with just a protractor...I did order a good metric straightedge though - cost almost as much as a cheap pair of 12" digital calipers, lol.

Holly
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