[SteveRB]

hey guys,

i have moved away from my hifi-guy and would now like to gain some independance by learning to balence/adjust my own tone arm.

what are suggested tools/kits/procedures i should look at? 

any help would be great.

oh yah, i have a rega planar 3

[Audiopro]

Do you still have the Rega set-up protractor for setting overhang? You'll also need a scale for setting tracking weight. I don't trust the markings on most tonearms even though it should be good enough for initial set-up.
Small screwdriver and fine pliers help.
Most important - steady hands.

[Listens2tubes]

Also of value are the Hi-Fi News & Record Review Test Record as well as the Cardas Frequency Sweep and Burn-In Record.

[gooberdude]

I've only recently figured out the proper set-up of my TT.   it requires patience, confidence & a really steady hand.

You can print out a decent protractor @ www.enjoythemusic.com   just cut out the spindle hole and it should give a decent template for adjusting the cartridge to the tonearm.

For proper tracking force VTF, Shure makes a $25 scale that works good or a plastic digital one from ebay will cost the same.

For another cheap cartr alignment protractor, check out www.garagearecords.com.  its $1.
On my TT the enjoythemusic one sounds better...

the hardest part of this for me was removing the cartr clips without adding pressure on the tonearm.   Get a nice small needle nose pliers, not the heavy one normally found at Home Depot.   finding the right force and technique here is key, and once you're comfotable the addest confidence makes the other adjustments easy.