Are you a vinyl enthusiast looking to optimize your turntable’s sound quality and protect your precious record collection?
One crucial aspect of turntable maintenance is measuring the tracking force, or the weight at which the stylus sits on the record. This measurement ensures that your stylus is making proper contact with the grooves and producing the best sound possible while avoiding damage to your vinyl.
But how do you accurately measure tracking force?
In this article, we’ll explore different methods and tools for measuring tracking force and provide tips for finding the optimal range for your specific cartridge.
Let’s dive in!
How To Measure Tracking Force Turntable
There are several methods for measuring tracking force on your turntable, but not all of them are equally accurate. Here are some of the most common methods:
1. The ‘Gram Scale’ Method: This method involves using a scale to measure the tracking weight, which can then be used to calculate the tracking force. While this method is relatively easy and inexpensive, it may not be the most accurate, as the height of the scale surface can affect the actual tracking force at the record surface.
2. The Shure Beam-Style Scale Method: This method involves using a specialized scale that is more accurate than a standard jeweler’s scale. It is recommended to adjust VTA so that the tonearm is level when the stylus is on the scale for even greater accuracy.
3. The Ortofon Tracking Force Gauge Method: This method involves using a small plastic pivot-type scale to accurately measure tracking force between 1.25 g and 4 g. This tool is simple to use and provides accurate results.
Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific cartridge when setting the tracking force. In general, most cartridges fall within a range of 1-3 grams, but it’s important to check the manual or look up online for your specific model.
Why Measuring Tracking Force Is Important For Your Turntable
Measuring tracking force is crucial for maintaining the quality of your turntable and vinyl collection. If the tracking force is set too heavy, it can cause damage to both the record and the needle, resulting in distorted sound quality. On the other hand, if the tracking force is set too light, the needle could skip across the grooves, potentially scratching the record and causing unnecessary damage to the stylus.
By measuring the tracking force accurately, you can ensure that your turntable is set up correctly and that your vinyl collection is protected. It also ensures that you’re getting the best possible sound quality from your records. Using a reliable tracking force measurement tool such as the Ortofon Tracking Force Gauge can help you achieve this accuracy.
It’s important to note that each cartridge has an ideal tracking force range that falls between 1-3 grams. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific cartridge, you can ensure that you’re setting the tracking force correctly and preserving the quality of your vinyl collection. In summary, measuring tracking force is a crucial step in maintaining the quality of your turntable and vinyl collection and ensuring that you’re getting the best possible sound quality from your records.
Understanding Tracking Force And Its Impact On Sound Quality
Tracking force is an essential aspect of turntable setup that directly impacts sound quality. It refers to the weight at which the stylus or needle sits on the record as it spins. The ideal tracking force ensures that the stylus makes optimal contact with the record, creating the best sound quality while preventing damage to the record and needle.
Setting up tracking force correctly involves adjusting the counterweight to get the tonearm in balance, and adjusting the anti-skate force to keep the needle centered on the record. The recommended tracking force for your cartridge will be provided in the manual, and it’s important to follow these recommendations for optimal performance.
If the tracking force is set too heavy, it can cause distortion and damage to both the record and needle. On the other hand, if it’s set too light, the needle may skip across grooves, potentially scratching the record and causing unnecessary damage to the stylus.
It’s important to note that tracking force can change over time as cartridges age and weather conditions fluctuate. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly check and adjust tracking force to maintain optimal performance.
Tools And Methods For Measuring Tracking Force
When it comes to measuring tracking force on your turntable, there are a variety of tools and methods available to help you achieve accurate results. Here are some of the most common options:
1. The Gram Scale Method: This method involves using a standard scale to measure the tracking weight. To use this method, you’ll need to place your tonearm onto the scale and adjust the counterweight until the scale reads the correct tracking force for your cartridge. While this method is relatively easy and inexpensive, it may not be the most accurate, as the height of the scale surface can affect the actual tracking force at the record surface.
2. The Shure Beam-Style Scale Method: This method involves using a specialized scale that is more accurate than a standard jeweler’s scale. The Shure beam-style scale is designed to measure tracking force with greater precision, and is often used by audiophiles who demand the highest level of accuracy. To use this method, you’ll need to place your tonearm onto the scale and adjust the counterweight until the beam is level.
3. The Ortofon Tracking Force Gauge Method: This method involves using a small plastic pivot-type scale that is specifically designed for measuring tracking force on turntables. The Ortofon tracking force gauge is simple to use and provides accurate results between 1.25 g and 4 g. To use this method, you’ll need to place your tonearm onto the gauge and adjust the counterweight until the gauge is in balance.
4. Digital Tracking Force Gauges: For those who want even greater accuracy, digital tracking force gauges are available on the market. These tools use electronic sensors to measure tracking force with incredible precision, often down to 0.001 gram increments. The Pro-ject USA Measure it S2 is an example of a digital tracking force gauge that can measure up to 5 grams of tracking force with impressive accuracy.
Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific cartridge when setting the tracking force. By using one of these tools or methods, you can ensure that your turntable is performing at its best and that you’re getting the most out of your vinyl collection.
Step-by-Step Guide To Measuring Tracking Force On Your Turntable
If you’re new to turntables, measuring tracking force may seem a little daunting. However, with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a relatively simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring tracking force on your turntable:
1. Gather your tools: You’ll need a tracking force gauge (such as the Ortofon Tracking Force Gauge mentioned above), a clean record, and your turntable.
2. Set up your turntable: Make sure your turntable is set up correctly and is level. This will ensure accurate measurements.
3. Place the gauge on the turntable: Place the tracking force gauge on the platter of your turntable.
4. Zero the gauge: Make sure the gauge is set to zero before you begin. This will ensure accurate measurements.
5. Adjust the counterweight: Adjust the counterweight on your tonearm until it is balanced. This means that the tonearm should remain in the same position without rising or sinking.
6. Place the stylus on the gauge: Carefully place the stylus on the tracking force gauge.
7. Read the measurement: The gauge should now display the tracking force in grams. Make sure this measurement falls within the recommended range for your specific cartridge.
8. Adjust as necessary: If the tracking force is too high or too low, adjust the counterweight accordingly and repeat steps 5-7 until you achieve the recommended tracking force.
9. Test on a record: Once you’ve set the tracking force, test it out on a clean record to ensure optimal sound quality and prevent damage to your vinyl.
By following these simple steps and using a reliable tracking force gauge, you can easily measure and adjust tracking force on your turntable for optimal sound quality and vinyl protection.
Finding The Optimal Range For Your Cartridge
To find the optimal range for your cartridge, you should first refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal tracking force range. Most cartridges fall within a range of 1-3 grams, but some may have a lower or higher range. It’s important to avoid the top and bottom ends of the range and aim for a mid-range setting. For example, if your cartridge needs a tracking force of 1.5 to 2.5 grams, then setting it to roughly 2 grams would be ideal. This will ensure that your turntable is set at the correct weight to play music without damaging your vinyl collection.
It’s important to note that different cartridges may require different tracking force ranges, so it’s crucial to check the manual or look up the specific weight online for your cartridge model. Once you’ve found the recommended range, you can set your counterweight to the middle of that range to achieve the optimal tracking force.
Using a digital gram scale can also help you ensure that your tracking force is accurate. Simply lower the stylus onto the scale and check the digital readout to see how much force is being applied. You can then adjust your counterweight accordingly to achieve the recommended tracking force.
By finding the optimal range for your cartridge and setting your tracking force accordingly, you’ll be able to enjoy high-quality sound from your turntable without causing damage to your vinyl collection.
Tips For Maintaining Proper Tracking Force And Protecting Your Vinyl Collection
Proper tracking force is essential for preserving the quality of your vinyl records and extending their lifespan. Here are some tips for maintaining proper tracking force and protecting your vinyl collection:
1. Keep your turntable clean: Before and after each use, make sure to clean your turntable and stylus with a soft brush or cloth to remove dust and debris. This will help prevent damage to your records and ensure accurate tracking force.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity: Store your records in a clean, dry place away from extreme temperatures and humidity. This will help prevent warping, which can lead to unplayable vinyl.
3. Hold your records by the outer edge: When handling your records, always hold them by the outer edge to avoid touching the surface with your fingers. This will prevent fingerprints and smudges, which can affect sound quality.
4. Use a tracking force gauge: To ensure accurate tracking force, use a tracking force gauge to measure the weight of the tonearm on the record surface. This will help prevent damage to the grooves and ensure optimal sound quality.
5. Recalibrate your tonearm regularly: Over time, the tonearm on your turntable may become unbalanced, affecting tracking force. To recalibrate your tonearm, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional.
By following these tips, you can maintain proper tracking force on your turntable and protect your vinyl collection for years to come. Remember to handle your records with care, keep your equipment clean and calibrated, and store your records in a safe place to ensure optimal sound quality and longevity.
