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Using the VPI threaded clamp and azimuth change

I am using the VPI threaded delrin clamp that came with my classic 1. It is stated that the threaded clamp is to be used in conjunction with the rubber spindle washer. When it is used this way, it seems like it would negatively affect the azimuth setting. When you screw down the clamp and tighten it against the rubber washer, it does force the outer edge of the LP downward to touch the platter. This causes the LP to have a slight downward dish appearance. When I have set my azimuth on a level surface, does this not cause the azimuth to be out of alignment? Do I need to set my azimuth canted a bit to the outside of the platter to compensate for this effect? How are you VPI users adjusting for this?
andyprice44
macster
64 posts
 
It doesn't change the azimuth at all. I actually set my azimuth with the threaded clamp, washer and an angle protractor.

M~
brf
1,699 posts
 
Using an angle protractor only assumes that the diamond is "perfectly" aligned on the cantilever.

Setting the head shell parallel to the record surface is a starting point, not necessarily the end result. Trust your ears.
ptmconsulting
1,000 posts
 
If you are clamping your disks you can easily "test" that you've got the tension correct by simply tapping your fingernail against the record edge. You will immediately hear if the record is making good solid contact with the platter or if it is too loosely clamped or too tightly clamped and dishing up a bit.

I used a fozgo on mine with the clamp on and have had no issues.
macster
64 posts
 
RE"Using an angle protractor only assumes that the diamond is "perfectly" aligned on the cantilever."
I set mine the way that Harry instructs, the only thing that I add is a quantitative factor, that is a measurement, which is both repeatable and reproducible. In this case using your ears results in to many variables, e.g. how tired you are, state of mind and all kinds of stuff like that. Even if you adjust it for your ears, the result will be good for only those records that were used to set it. Apparently the method that Harry chose to set the alignment works, because the table sounds great with a variety of records not just a chosen few.
actusreus
733 posts
 
Good point, Macster. My system positively sounds different nearly every time I listen to it, without touching a thing. I've long come to realize the person's state of mind, influenced by a variety of physiological and psychological factors, has a great deal to do with the way the sound is perceived, experienced, and processed. I think this is way too often ignored in discussions on here.
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