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Feickert - Universal Protractor


Feickert - Universal Protractor

Feickert


$250.00
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The Absolute Sound - 2010 Editors' Choice Awards Absolute Sound Editors Choice 2009 The Absolute Sound - 2008 Editors' Choice Awards The Absolute Sound 2007 Editors' Choice Award  
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Feickert Universal Protractor Guide

"Enthusiasts with even moderately priced analog setups will find this protractor to be indispensable…No more guessing over crude paper or plastic overhang markers or mirrored devices; this thing works like a charm." – The Absolute Sound's 9 "Must-Have" Analog Accessories – Wayne Garcia, The Absolute Sound, June/July 2007

A truly outstanding design that we at Acoustic Sounds give our highest recommendation. This protractor system is the best we've found for aligning your cartridge with ultimate accuracy for tonearms with an effective length from 8.6 up to 17.7 inches. The calculation of parameters were carefully carried out according to Lofgren's equations aiming for reduction of the overall RMS distortion level caused by deviations from the ideal tangential position of your cartridge while tracking your records. The goal is to find a tracking geometry that suits LPs in a perfect way. Operation is simple, and the results are very rewarding.

NOTE: The spindle hole on the overhang disc with this tool has intentionally been cut small. This is to allow the tool to work with the smallest spindles without affording any unwanted "play." For larger spindles, simply enlarge the spindle hole using a tapered reamer. Call us at 800-716-3553 for questions or further instruction.

Click here for setup instruction.

"Okay, let's get this said early; I consider this a must-own tool for anyone who cares about proper tonearm setup and cartridge geometry. This beautifully manufactured precision device, the work of Dr. Chris Feickert, incorporates both Baerwald and Lofgren geometries, the two principle approaches to cartridge alignment – one on each side. It's also a universal device, handling arms of 200 to 440mm effective length! It even includes a strobe pattern, 50Hz for Europe, 60Hz for the US version…It's easy to use and as far as I'm concerned, simply the best. It is an essential tool for your vinyl toolbox and with proper care, will last a lifetime. Highly recommended." – Richard S. Foster, Hi-Fi+, Issue 48

"Feickert's kit is impressive, especially if you want something more than a cardboard or plastic template. Most impressive is the metal jig for measuring the pivot-to-spindle distances – nicely made, if industrial…It looks more complicated than it is; a thorough reading of the instructions will have you setting up cartridges in minutes…trust me: it will provide peace of mind for even the most truly neurotic of vinyl users." – Ken Kessler, Hi-Fi News, August 2006, www.hifinews.co.uk

"Just wanted to give you my report on the Feickert protractor. In my opinion, it is a must have item for anyone that is seriously into vinyl. This well made aluminum device makes it SO simple to set up the correct pivot point to spindle distance and it is almost impossible to get it wrong, at least with the Triplanar VII that I use. The set up tool that came with the Triplanar was off 4mm in this critical measurement! The white disc that is used in conjunction to set up the cartridge alignment is also easier and more accurate than the mirrored type I have used in the past. The marks to align the cartridge contrast much better on the white than on a mirrored surface." – Steve Dobbins, Acoustic Sounds customer

 

Customer Reviews (4.50 Stars) 4 person(s) rated this product.
Protractor Basics Required posted on 03/20/2006
3 Stars
Reviewer: Fred
At first glance the use of this item would appear to be straight forward, however unless you are sure that the mfg of your particular tonearm has supplied correct dimensions for length etc. then you are in for a not so pleasent experience. Once this has been resolved it becomes relatively easy if somewhat tedious. Once the procedure is complete the result is truly satisfying. Not a cheap pc of equip but probably worth it in the long run.


How Did I live Without It? posted on 09/26/2006
5 Stars
Reviewer: Joseph Levy, Tempo Electric
Yes, it's expensive, but the headline says it all.

After fiddling around with several popular products, including the dB Systems Protractor and the van den Hul Mirrored Alignment Gauge, the cartridge-arm alignment (Shelter 90X on a Well Tempered arm and WT Reference turntable) still seemed off. In desperation, I became an early adopter and after 10 minutes with the Feickert had everything just right. This was confirmed when I returned to the dB Protractor and finally saw the grids positioned where they should be. Recommended for all, but essential for anyone who has $2K+ invested in their vinyl playback system.

Still too expensive? Even though Chad squirms at the thought, if you have to, go in with some audio buddies and share the cost.

NB: Because of its unique design, the Well Tempered arm was a challenge to use with the Feickert, but with care it can be done!


Works great posted on 07/03/2007
5 Stars
Cash well spent. Made an audible difference in my setup. Well worth the monies.


Quick set up! posted on 07/05/2007
5 Stars
If you want accuracy and the ability to quickly set up a cartridge and arm, you won't find a finer instrument. Had been using the DB Systems protractor which works very well, but it can be time consuming to change between carts., and no help with different arms. No need for trial and error. Three steps, and you are done!


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