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The JMW 10.5i does not have a built-in tracking force gauge, but a Shure Stylus Force Gauge is
supplied with your arm on a new unit. Following the gauge instructions set the tracking force to the
cartridge manufacturer recommendation plus 1/10 of a gram more. We always recommend going
to the high side when it comes to tracking force. High frequency vibrations can cause a light-
tracking cartridge to cause more damage to the grooves than running a cartridge at a heavy setting.
Make sure the damping fluid is not installed when setting this force.
VERY IMPORTANT: MAKE SURE THE TONEARM IS PARALLEL TO THE PLATTER WHEN SETTING THE
TRACKING FORCE. IF IT IS NOT THE END RESULT WILL BE HIGHER OR LOWER VTF THAN YOU WANTED.
Next, the lateral balance or azimuth must be set. Because the phono cartridge is offset, there is an
unbalancing force that tilts the arm to one side. For the cartridge to properly track the record
groove, the stylus must be ninety degrees to the record surface. Move the counterweight so a slight
tracking force is applied and the stylus just sits on the record surface.
use the azimuth ring to set correct azimuth. Lay the long thin rod supplied behind the cartridge
mounting screws into the V groove and use it as a guide for setting azimuth. Rotate the flat part of
the ring towards the side that is lower and that side will become lighter causing it to rise. Playing
with this will give very accurate azimuth settings.
Unlike other unipivot arms, the JMW’s lateral balance weight does not hang off to the side of the
arm. Instead, its position around the bottom of the upper bearing housing places the weight below
the pivot point. This increases mass below the pivot and increases arm stability.
In the rear of the counterweight stub there is a large hole, in this hole is a screw that is used for fine
adjustment of VTF. Use the large wrench supplied for this operation. Most times you will not need
