Vertical Tracking Force (VTF) is the amount of force that is applied to the stylus of a turntable cartridge to keep it in contact with the record groove. The correct VTF is important for getting the best sound quality from your turntable.
How to Set VTF
To set VTF, you will need a tracking force scale. A tracking force scale is a device that measures the amount of force that is being applied to the stylus.
Once you have a tracking force scale, you will need to follow these steps to set VTF:
- Balance the tonearm.
- Set the anti-skate to zero.
- Place the tracking force scale under the stylus.
- Adjust the counterweight on the tonearm until the tracking force scale shows the desired VTF.
The Correct VTF
The correct VTF for a turntable cartridge will vary depending on the cartridge. The cartridge’s manufacturer will usually recommend a specific VTF.
If you do not have the manufacturer’s recommendation, you can start with a VTF of 2 grams and adjust it up or down until you find the best sound quality.
Too Much VTF
If the VTF is too high, it can cause the stylus to damage the record groove. It can also cause the sound to be distorted.
Too Little VTF
If the VTF is too low, the stylus may not be able to track the record groove properly. This can cause the sound to be distorted or the record to skip.
Troubleshooting VTF Problems
If you are having problems with VTF, there are a few things you can check.
- Make sure that the tonearm is balanced properly. If the tonearm is not balanced properly, it can cause problems with VTF.
- Make sure that the anti-skate is set correctly. If the anti-skate is not set correctly, it can also cause problems with VTF.
- Make sure that the stylus is clean. A dirty stylus can also cause problems with VTF.
By following these tips, you can help to troubleshoot problems with VTF on your turntable.
Here are some additional tips for setting VTF:
- If you are using a tracking force scale, make sure that it is calibrated correctly.
- If you are adjusting the counterweight on the tonearm, be careful not to overtighten it. This can damage the tonearm.
- If you are having trouble setting VTF, you can always consult with a qualified technician.