Denon DL-103 tracking force

[magiccarpetride]

I recently bought electronic scales to help me set up my cartridge tracking force. When I tested it on my Denon DL-103, I see that it is set at 2.61 grams. Is that okay, or is it too high?

I'm asking because I've just attended a "How to set your turntable" seminar, where it was explained that the optimal tracking force is around 1.8 grams.

[Ammonite Audio]

I think that perhaps whoever gave that seminar should go back to school. Tracking force depends on the cartridge compliance and therefore varies considerably. For example, a Benz Glider does track at a recommended 1.8g, but a Miyajima Shilabe needs 3g. Vinyl Engine's Cartridge Database gives tracking force for the DL103 as 2.2 - 2.8g so you're pretty much spot-on.

[magiccarpetride]

I think that perhaps whoever gave that seminar should go back to school. Tracking force depends on the cartridge compliance and therefore varies considerably. For example, a Benz Glider does track at a recommended 1.8g, but a Miyajima Shilabe needs 3g. Vinyl Engine's Cartridge Database gives tracking force for the DL103 as 2.2 - 2.8g so you're pretty much spot-on.

Thanks!

[Barry]

I think that perhaps whoever gave that seminar should go back to school. Tracking force depends on the cartridge compliance and therefore varies considerably. For example, a Benz Glider does track at a recommended 1.8g, but a Miyajima Shilabe needs 3g. Vinyl Engine's Cartridge Database gives tracking force for the DL103 as 2.2 - 2.8g so you're pretty much spot-on.

I agree. One should always follow the manufacturer's advice. I usually set up the VTF to be 0.25g below the manufacturer's maximum recommended figure, and then adjust this by ear.

One should never under-track a cartridge. Under-tracking can cause more damage to the record than over-tracking. Also the required cartridge tracking force depends not only on the compliance but also on the stylus profile.