Product Review

A Professional tracking force gauge designed for vinyl record purist's interested in more precise measurement of vertical tracking force (VTF). For accurate VTF measurement, the stylus tip should be at the same vertical position as the record surface - that is, at "record level". With Riverstone's professional VTF gauge, vertical tracking force is measured approx. 2 mm to 3 mm from the surface of a turntable mat or platter - which is the height of a stylus tip resting on an LP record (LP's have a thickness range of 1.9 mm to 2.9 mm). And, with this VTF gauge, there is no need to remove your platter mat - the gauge arm places the stylus tip at the correct height. Less expensive gauges typically have a stylus-tip measurement distance between 6 and 10 mm - which can lead to errors in measurement. To reduce interaction with magnets in MM and MC cartridges, the VTF gauge is manufactured from durable plastic and the detachable cantilevered extension arm is made from a non-ferromagnetic grade of stainless steel. Two calibration masses (5g and 20g) are included for re-calibration (1-minute procedure). With larger calibration masses (not supplied) the gauge can be re-calibrated for use up to 100 g. A polymer pad on the measuring platform protects the stylus tip and allows accurately centering the stylus on the measuring platform. The LED display (green) is bright and easy to read. A very detailed instruction manual is provided. Overall dimensions: 52 mm (W) x 91 mm (L) x 12.0 mm (H); height dimension is with cover removed. PLEASE NOTE: Although no tools are required, installation of the record-level extension arm requires a bit of technical savvy. A tin storage box is included to protect the VTF gauge when not in use. All Riverstone Audio Tracking Force Gauges are covered by a full TWO-YEAR WARRANTY. ***Requires one Alkaline AAA battery (sorry, battery NOT included)***