2. analog
  3. 1181519956

Cartridge Break-in at High VTF?

I'd like to know if anyone has knowledge and experience breaking in a new cartridge at a slightly higher vertical tracking force than the manufacturer's normal recommended force. I'm thinking if the cartridge's recommended VTF is 2 grams, then I'd break it in at something like 2.5 g. The way I'm thinking, this would loosen the suspension more in a vertical direction. Assuming I don't put too much force on the cantilever (like 2.5 g vs. 2), is this a good thing or not?
bl2000
piedpiper
753 posts
 
I usually go little high but not as high as your suggesting. If the range is, say 1.8 - 2.2, with 2 being optimal, go for 2.2 at first, bringing down to 2.1 after 50 hours or so, then down to 2 after about 100 hours. Then revisit VTA and go by ear.
lewm
6,770 posts
 
Probably not a good idea, but probably harmless if you use 2.05 or 2.1g instead of 2.0. Absolutely not a good idea to use 2.5g, IMO. You want to break it in, set the tracking force as recommended and play records designed for cartridge break-in, e.g., the records marketed by Cardas and others. They really do work, but it does take time.
mosin
410 posts
 
Hello BI200,

It is a very bad idea to break in a cartridge at a higher VTF than the manufacturer specifies. One maker who contacts me from time to time recommends starting at the lowest suggested setting to see how the cartridge performs, and then working up from there.

Regards,
mosin
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
I personally wouldn't use a VTF above the manufacturers range. I wouldn't want to damage the suspension...but maybe I'm just being overly cautious.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
The Cardas record has cartridge break in tracks designed to excercise a new suspension in both lateral and vertical modes. It's made with locked grooves and a harder than normal vinyl, to withstand extended plays in the same groove. I would use that at the manufacturer's recommended maximum VTF before I'd go 25% above the maximum. One hour on the Cardas tracks is worth several hours of music.

OTOH, I wouldn't bother if the cartridge sounded okay for listening OOTB. I'd just play music and enjoy (and learn from) the changes. Cartridges vary all over the lot in terms of how they sound when new and how quickly or slowly they break in. Hearing them change can be interesting, in a geeky sort of way. ;-)
More to discover