Parallel? How do you set the VTA?


Silly question, but how do you guys determine whether your tonearm is parallel to the record surface? I had my tonearm set up happily for months, but recently started messing around with the cartridge alignment and the VTA, and I'll be damned, but the folded index card method gets me nowhere now. Even with adjustments I keep getting the same visual effect. Happily my ear tells me when the setting is off, but as a base, how do you determine conclusively your tonearm is parallel? For reference, I have a VPI Classic. Thanks.
actusreus
Actusreus, you start with a new deck of cards and insert as many as necessary on top of the record so they stack up and are close to the arm. A bit easier to see if you are parallel to the bottom of the arm when the distance between the top card and bottom of the arm is small. My eyes and distance judgment is not as good as some responding so this additional aid gives me a better estimation of parallel for the starting point. After that I adjust by ear as and if necessary.
"...some of us just don't have the same acute hearing that you do."

But, Actusreus, read your own OP (that I quoted). You've already said that you DO hear the difference.

You don't need more acute hearing, you've already got it. You just need the self confidence to trust it. More time listening, less time measuring. :-)
Jperry,
Thanks! That's what I thought it was.

Doug,
I'm working on it...:) Good advice, as always.
A search for "tonearm spirit level" on ebay will likely provide you with what you are looking for. However, keep in mind that more often than not, a level is not level, and the spirit levels I am referring to on ebay have no means for adjustment except for sanding the bottom edge to true it up, whih I have not yet done on the one I recently received. I have been using woodworking brass gauge blocks with good success, although the card trick works as well.
1kitch,

This is precisely what I've been looking for! Thank you very much for this tip.