Hello,

My new Soundsmith MMC4 cartridge sounds better with 1,5 grams tracking force. The recommended force is 1,2 grams, but then (probably because of  worn situation of the records) it sounds like the stylus is worn. Could this tracking force of 1,5 grams do any real harm to the records or the stylus itself?

Greetings,

Ruud

Hi Ruud!1.5 gr is not really heavy! Even 2.5 with the old Shure N75 on other players is ok. The more important thing is to have the needle under control. If the needle looses contact to the groove it produces distorted sound and can even damage the groove and wear it out. Its a kind of "micro-stumble" (I don't know, how to express it in english). Greetings Chris

Hi Christof,

Thanks for your comment. I´m satisfied now.

Wiedersehen (oder wiederlesen),

Ruud

 

 

I always tune the weight by ear! Set it to about the right weight and then play with it - just as you have done!

It's better to track a bit on the heavy side than the light.  With a light tracking force the needle bounces around in the groove, causing damage.  You might also consider getting an inexpensive ($10-$20) tracking force guage - your calibration might be off.

Thanks for all, guys!