Setting Vertical Tracking Force W/ A Scale

[Connor1a]

Quick question.

I’ve setup my tonearm using the supplier supplied instructions (ie I balanced the tonearm and then backed off the counterweight etc to reach what should be a VTF of 1.8g).

Subsequently, I purchased a TT cartridge setup kit which included an electronic VTF scale.

Going forward, can I simply use the scale to measure VTF and then make changes to the counterbalance as necessary until I get a 1.8g (or whatever the recommended VTF is for the cart)? That is, versus first balancing the tonearm and then backing off on the counterweight? Wouldn’t the scale approach be more accurate?

Thanks in advance.

 

[JP]

Yes, but make sure you don't start out too heavy - that could damage the cartridge. This is why a lot of people still balance the arm first and "rough it in" with the counterweight scale before using the digital scale.

 

[Connor1a]

Yes, but make sure you don't start out too heavy - that could damage the cartridge. This is why a lot of people still balance the arm first and "rough it in" with the counterweight scale before using the digital scale.

Excellent point. I can see where that could happen… Thanks.