[Merle]

I could use some help. I just purchased a new Blackbird. I have it up and running and it sounds great. I also am quite sure my set-up isn't as good as it could/should be. Anybody near by who is REALLY good at aligning cartridges?

[jcoat007]

Get a Wally Tractor if you want the best alignment you can get.  

http://www.simplyblack.net/WVC/index_wally.html

[HAL]

Do you know the overhang setup for the arm?  I have a few Wallytractors for my arms.  

I use the Wallytractors with the Rega RB250, SME Series III and Magnepan Unitrac 1 arms for my setup.

Have the Wally VTA and anti-skate tools, along with the  burn-in and test setup.

Not sure about the Blackbird, as I have not been looking at phono items for awhile.

Let me know if you still need help.

[mmakshak]

This is what they haven't told you.  First off, align it according to a proper template.  Then leave the bolts a little loose(so you can barely move it with, say, a jeweler's screwdriver or a wooden matchstick).  Try moving the cartridge slightly on one side forward(gives more treble, I believe) or backwards.  When the sound seems to lock in, or is noticeably better than the other channel(i.e., speaker), you switch to the other side of the cartridge and do the same.  Now, when it comes time to tighten the bolts, be careful.  Many(or most?) tonearms need to be moved from the table to tighten the bolts.  I think that you will be intrigued enough with the results produced, that this last step will take some time.  Don't forget the anti-skate, which also requires fine-tuning, by ear.

[Merle]

OK, I think I've got it. I took everything apart and re-installed the Blackbird. I think I've done a MUCH better job of it this time around.