How to Install and Adjust Your Counterweight

Before You Begin

Before adjusting the counterweight:

• Remove the stylus protector from the cartridge.
• Avoid touching the stylus tip during setup to prevent damage.

Identify Your Counterweight Type

Type A: Threaded Counterweight
A traditional counterweight that screws onto the rear of the tonearm and is adjusted by rotating it.

Type B: Push-On Counterweight
A counterweight that slides directly onto the rear of the tonearm. Tracking force is set by aligning the counterweight with the force markings printed on the tonearm.

Step 1: Release the Tonearm

1. Unlock the tonearm clip.
2. Carefully lift the tonearm from its rest while supporting it with your hand.
3. Verify that the tonearm moves freely.

Setup for Type A: Threaded Counterweight

Step 2A: Balance the Tonearm

1. Rotate the counterweight toward the front of the turntable.
2. Continue adjusting until the tonearm hovers above the platter and remains level.

Tip: If the stylus touches the platter, the counterweight has been rotated too far. Adjust the counterweight until the tonearm floats level without making contact.

Step 3A: Calibrate the Tracking Force Scale

1. Return the tonearm to its rest and secure the tonearm clip.
2. Hold the counterweight in place to prevent it from turning.
3. Rotate only the numbered tracking force scale dial until the "0" aligns with the center reference line on top of the tonearm.

Step 4A: Set the Recommended Tracking Force

1. Rotate the entire counterweight counterclockwise until the scale shows the recommended tracking force for your cartridge.
2. Refer to your turntable's user manual for the correct tracking force setting.

Setup for Type B: Push-On Counterweight

Step 2B: Install the Counterweight

1. Slide the counterweight onto the rear of the tonearm.
2. Push the counterweight forward until the indicator aligns with the recommended tracking force marking on the tonearm.
3. Refer to your turntable's user manual for the correct tracking force setting.

Note: The force markings on the tonearm correspond to stylus tracking force. Aligning the counterweight with the appropriate marking automatically sets the correct counterbalance for playback.

Step 3B: Verify Adjustment

1. Return the tonearm to its rest and secure the tonearm clip.
2. Confirm that the counterweight is fully seated on the tonearm and aligned with the selected force marking.
3. Play a record and verify stable tracking and clear audio performance.

Verify Your Adjustment

After setup:

• Confirm the tonearm moves smoothly during playback.
• Verify the tracking force setting matches the user manual's recommendations.
• Ensure the stylus remains level and tracks properly across the record surface.

Troubleshooting

Tonearm Won't Float Level (Threaded Counterweight Models)

• Check that the stylus protector has been removed.
• Make small adjustments to the counterweight until the tonearm balances evenly.
• Ensure the tonearm clip is fully released during balancing.

Stylus Touches the Platter While Balancing

• The counterweight is too far forward.
• Slowly move or rotate the counterweight in the opposite direction until the tonearm floats level above the platter.

Tracking Force Appears Incorrect

• Recheck the counterweight position or force-mark alignment.
• Verify the recommended tracking force in your cartridge or turntable documentation.
• Repeat the setup procedure if necessary.

Setup Complete

Your tonearm is now properly balanced and adjusted for playback. Correct tracking force helps deliver better audio performance while minimizing wear on both your records and stylus.

Note: These instructions are standardized and do not universally apply to all turntables. Always reference your product's user manual for model-specific instructions.