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Tracking force is how hard the stylus presses down on the record. Too little and the stylus can mistrack, rattle in the groove and skip. Too much and it presses harder than the cartridge was designed for, which can affect sound and wear. Most turntables with a counterweight have a dial that gives a rough setting, but a digital stylus gauge lets you measure the actual force at the stylus tip. This guide shows how to use one.
What tracking force is
Tracking force, sometimes called vertical tracking force or stylus pressure, is measured in grams (g) or millinewtons (mN). Each cartridge maker publishes a recommended range for each cartridge or stylus. That range is what the designers tested for best tracking and sound. Staying within it is the goal; the exact point within the range is partly a matter of preference and your records.
Why a gauge helps
On many turntables, the counterweight has a numbered ring. After balancing the arm, you rotate the ring to zero and then turn the counterweight to the desired number. That works, but the markings are an approximation. Small differences in the arm, the cartridge weight or how you zeroed it can add up. A digital gauge measures what the stylus actually applies, which is more reliable.
What you need
- Your cartridge's recommended tracking force range, from the manual or maker's site.
- A digital stylus force gauge.
- A level turntable. See how to level a turntable.
- Good light and patience.
Neoteck Digital Stylus Force Gauge 0.01 g / 5 g
0–5 g range; 0.01 g resolution; ±0.02 g stated accuracy; 5 g calibration weight; case
Pros
- Checks tracking force on adjustable tonearms
- Includes calibration weight
Cons
- Platform height differs from record level
Step 1: set anti-skate to zero
Before balancing, set the anti-skate control to zero so it does not push the arm sideways while you work. You will set it again afterwards.
Step 2: balance the tonearm
- Remove the stylus guard.
- Unclip the tonearm from its rest and hold it gently.
- Turn the counterweight until the arm floats level by itself, neither rising nor falling.
- Return the arm to its rest.
- Holding the counterweight still, turn only the numbered ring until zero lines up with the mark on the arm.
This gives a starting point. Always follow your turntable's manual for the details, as designs vary.
Step 3: set a rough force with the dial
Turn the counterweight, which turns the ring with it, until the dial shows the middle of your cartridge's recommended range. This is your starting point for measuring.
Step 4: measure with the gauge
- Switch on the gauge and let it read zero. Calibrate it if your gauge has a calibration routine; many come with a small calibration weight.
- Place the gauge on the platter, with the motor off, so the measuring point is under the stylus. The platter mat should be in place if you normally play with it, so the height is close to record height.
- Gently lower the stylus onto the marked measuring point with the cue lever.
- Read the force once the number settles.
- Lift the arm with the cue lever.
Step 5: adjust and repeat
If the reading is below the range, turn the counterweight to move it closer to the pivot, increasing force. If it is above, move it away. Make small adjustments and measure again. Repeat until the reading is in the recommended range. Take three readings and use the average to smooth out small variations.
Step 6: set anti-skate
Once tracking force is set, set anti-skate according to your turntable maker's guidance. On many turntables, the anti-skate dial is set to the same number as the tracking force. See how to set anti-skate.
Where in the range should you aim?
Many people aim for the middle of the recommended range as a balance between tracking and wear. Some go slightly higher if they hear mistracking on loud passages, or for older, worn records. Going far above the range is not recommended, and going below can cause mistracking, which damages records more than a slightly higher force would. If in doubt, follow the maker's recommended figure.
Common errors with digital gauges
- Height mismatch: if the measuring surface is much higher or lower than a record, the arm angle changes and the reading can be off. Many gauges are designed to sit close to record height.
- Magnetic interference: some cartridges have strong magnets, which may affect gauges with metal parts. Gauges are designed with this in mind, but if readings jump, check the instructions.
- Not zeroing: always let the gauge zero before measuring.
- Dropping the stylus: always use the cue lever.
- Gauge not level: a gauge on an uneven surface may read wrongly.
Turntables without adjustable force
Suitcase players and many fully automatic entry turntables have fixed tracking force set at the factory. There is no counterweight to adjust, so you do not need a gauge. The AT-LP60X, for example, has factory-set force. On these, the best you can do is keep the stylus clean and the turntable level.
When to recheck
- After fitting a new stylus or cartridge.
- After moving the turntable.
- If you hear distortion or skipping.
- Every few months as a routine check.
Signs that force may be off include mistracking on loud passages, sibilance and skipping. See signs of a worn stylus, which can sound similar.
| Product | Key specs | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Neoteck Digital Stylus Force Gauge 0.01 g / 5 g | 0–5 g range; 0.01 g resolution; ±0.02 g stated accuracy; 5 g calibration weight; case | Check price on Amazon (opens in a new tab) |
| Audio-Technica AT-VMN95E Elliptical Replacement Stylus | 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical, bonded shank; fits AT-VM95 series cartridges (stock AT-VM95E on AT-LP120X series, AT-LP3XBT, AT-LPW30/40/50, AT-LP5X, AT-LP8X per Audio-Technica listing) | Check price on Amazon (opens in a new tab) |
Specs are from manufacturer and retailer listings and can change between versions; check the listing before you buy. We don't show prices because they change often; the button shows the current price on Amazon.
The table shows the gauge alongside a common elliptical stylus. When you fit a new stylus like the AT-VMN95E, check its recommended force on Audio-Technica's page and set the force to match.
Gauge vs balance scale
Before digital gauges became cheap, people used small mechanical balance scales. They work, but are slower and less precise. A digital gauge reads directly and quickly. Neither replaces the cartridge maker's recommendation; they simply help you hit it.
Looking after your gauge
Keep the gauge in its case, away from dust and moisture. Replace batteries when readings become unstable. Check it occasionally with its calibration weight if supplied.
Why tracking force affects sound
The stylus must stay in firm contact with both groove walls to trace the music accurately. With too little force, it can lose contact on loud, heavily modulated passages, which sounds like harsh distortion or buzzing, and in bad cases it skips. With the right force, it tracks cleanly. Above the recommended range, the suspension may be pushed beyond its designed operating point, which can dull the sound and increase pressure on the groove. That is why the maker's range is the best guide.
A worked example
Suppose your cartridge maker recommends a range with a middle point of 2 grams. You balance the arm, zero the ring, and set the dial to 2. The gauge reads slightly lower. You turn the counterweight a little towards the pivot and measure again, and now it reads in the range. You take two more readings to confirm, then set anti-skate to the matching figure per your manual. The whole process takes a few minutes once you are familiar with it. Use your own cartridge's figures, not this example.
Checking with a different stylus
If you own several styli for the same cartridge body, such as different VM95 tips, check their recommended ranges. They may differ slightly. Recheck the force each time you swap, and note the counterweight position for each stylus so switching back is quick.
Tracking force and record wear
People sometimes worry that heavier tracking wears records faster. In practice, mistracking from too little force does more damage, because the stylus bounces against the groove walls. Within the recommended range, a clean stylus and clean records matter more for record life than small changes in force. Our record cleaning guide covers keeping records clean.
Write your final setting down, along with the date and stylus, and keep the note with your turntable manual. Next time you swap a stylus or move house, you will know exactly where to start.
If your readings ever look strange, such as wildly different numbers from one measurement to the next, check the gauge battery and its position first. Most odd readings come from the gauge, not the turntable.
FAQ
Do I need a digital stylus gauge?
Not strictly, but it gives a more reliable reading than the counterweight dial alone.
What tracking force should I use?
Use the range your cartridge maker recommends. The middle of the range is a good starting point.
Is too much tracking force bad?
Well above the recommended range is not advised. Too little can cause mistracking, which can damage records.
Do suitcase players need a gauge?
No. Their tracking force is fixed.