Best protractor for aligning to cantilever

If you're trying to sight down the centerline of an alignment grid, having two images makes it possible to get precisely lined up. The printed line and its reflection are either directly on top of each other or they're not. This degree of precision is impossible without dual images.

I spent some time with my TTB protractor today and I see what you mean. If the lines were thinner and they got rid of those concentric squares, I think it would be a better tool, though.

If using a universal protractor, absolute precision in pivot-to-spindle distance is unnecessary. That's the whole point of an aimable protractor and headshells with slots. Pivot-to-spindle is a hair off? No problem. The protractor will automatically produce a pivot-to-stylus dimension to compensate. If the stylus is square at both null points your triangle is correct, by definition.

ok...I get it. Finally. It only takes 6 or so times to sink in.

BTW, if you're using a Baerwald protractor with an OL arm, you may have better luck mounting the arm at ~220mm than the stock distance of 222.76. Regas weren't designed for Baerwald and some cartridges aren't long enough to reach the Baerwald null points with the arm mounted at the stock distance.

I know we've discussed this before, but I've never experienced this as an issue (Shelter 501 mk 11 and a Denon 103R).

If the lines were thinner and they got rid of those concentric squares, I think it would be a better tool, though.

Agreed! One line through the null point plus one on either side for squaring yourself up would be better.

I can't think of any use for all those squares. They confuse the eye with alot of unnecessary information. Maybe they're intended for aligning the cartridge body rather than the cantilever, but why do that?

The Rega/Baerwald incompatibility will only arise if a cartridge's stylus-to-mounting screws dimension is shorter than average. I had that with one cartridge (can't remember which). An inward nudge of the armboard fixed that.

So who can etch something (and drill a hole in) a piece of glass mirror for us? Let's make a 12" round mirror and use the space to really make something useful. :)

Well I got a Wallytractor,on loan from Jeff Catalano of High Water Sound.Got it in two days,and offered to buy it from him,as I want to re set up my newly arrived Phantom using other means for comparative purposes.The supplied jig is good,but I am getting fanatical these days.Tired of fotzing around too!!!-:)
Jeff mentioned he could get these readily,as he is friends with Wally!Some who have had bad experiences ordering these may want to give him a call.
From just looking at the Wally I will say that it seems to "really" cover the spectrum of set-up issues quite well.
My ONLY complaint is that one would have to be in really good GYM shape,what with all the body contortions necessary for exactitude,and re-checking azimuth etc.
Fortunately,I hit Ballys four times a week,but I have a sneaky suspicion that I will be exhausted tomorrow,at this time!-:)
Best.

Wally answered the phone yesterday and assured me that my order is going to be shipped. He also apologised for the delay and is including a 10% refund with my order.

Sirspeedy I'm like you getting a little fanatical my self. Since Tri Planar arrived the improvement in sound is nothing short of phenomenal. I want to be absolutely sure my arm adjustments are 100% correct.