Yes, the tracking force was probably too low. Without a guage I'm loath to add more than about 10% to the force. You're right to get a guage and you may want to buy a test record to verify the alignment via test signals.

I tend to run my TF at the upper end of the recommended range. A little added force is less damaging than actual mistracking.

Dave

and for that reason I think most cartridge manufacturers do suggest using the upper part of the range.

good that you're getting a TF gauge but if the dealer set it up for you, I think they should be able to check it and reset it for you. Hopefully for no charge

You might also want to find out if anyone you know, or your dealer, has any of the old Shure test records which, I believe, can be critical in settting up your turntables' antiskating. More tracking force will solve some problems, but as AD found out last month, sometimes no antiskating is preferable.

These records also allow you to determine what the resonace freq of your cart and tone arm are...if you care.

I am glad that I purchase many of the "white jacket" Shure test records decades ago and kept my V15 type 3 and Type V test records. It is not that you will use them all the time, but using them once gets it all right when spinning vinyl.

Both Hi Fi News and Cardas have LP records you can purchasd from Music direct that can help as well.

Regards,