Audio T Verdict
The Measure it E is one of those inexpensive turntable accessories that removes a surprising amount of guesswork from cartridge setup. A tonearm counterweight scale can get you close, but an electronic stylus balance tells you what tracking force is actually reaching the stylus.
With a 0–5g measuring range and readings in 0.01g increments, it has more than enough range for the vast majority of conventional hi-fi cartridges. Calibration is straightforward using the supplied 5g reference weight, while the illuminated display makes the result easy to read when the gauge is sitting down at platter level.
Whether you are installing a new cartridge, checking an existing setup or simply making sure nothing has moved over time, the Measure it E is a very useful tool to keep alongside your turntable.
Pro-Ject Measure it E Stylus Tracking Force Gauge
The Pro-Ject Measure it E is a compact electronic stylus balance designed to measure the tracking force applied by a turntable cartridge.
Place the gauge on the platter, lower the stylus onto the marked measuring point and the display provides a direct reading of the vertical tracking force. The tonearm counterweight can then be adjusted until the cartridge is operating at the manufacturer's recommended value.
- Electronic stylus tracking force gauge
- 0–5g measuring capacity
- 0.01g measurement increments
- ±0.01g variance
- Backlit LCD display
- Four weighing modes
- Gram measurement for cartridge setup
- Gram readings can be related directly to mN
- Automatic calibration function
- 5g calibration weight supplied
- 30-second automatic power off
- LR43 / AG12 button-cell operation
- Batteries supplied
- Spare batteries supplied
- Protective storage pouch included
- Compact 96mm-wide design
- 49g weight
What Is Tracking Force?
Tracking force is the downward pressure applied by the cartridge stylus as it sits in the record groove.
Cartridge manufacturers specify a recommended tracking force, or sometimes a recommended operating range, because the cartridge suspension and stylus assembly are designed to work correctly within that loading.
The figure is usually expressed in grams, although some manufacturers also specify it in millinewtons.
Why Does Tracking Force Matter?
The cartridge is a precision mechanical device. Its stylus needs enough downward force to remain securely in contact with the groove while still allowing the suspension and cantilever to move as intended.
Setting tracking force correctly helps the cartridge operate in the way its manufacturer designed it to.
It should therefore be checked whenever a cartridge is installed, changed or repositioned.
Too Little Tracking Force Is Not Safer
It is tempting to assume that reducing tracking force below the manufacturer's recommendation must be kinder to a record because less pressure is being applied.
In reality, too little force can prevent the stylus from following the groove securely. The cartridge may mistrack instead of maintaining stable contact with the groove walls.
The correct approach is to use the tracking force specified by the cartridge manufacturer rather than deliberately running the cartridge unusually light.
Too Much Tracking Force Is Not the Answer Either
Increasing tracking force beyond the recommended value is equally unnecessary.
The cartridge suspension, cantilever and stylus are designed around a particular operating range, so setup should be based on the manufacturer's specification rather than simply adding more downforce until the cartridge appears stable.
Start With the Cartridge Manufacturer's Figure
The Measure it E tells you how much tracking force is actually being applied. It does not determine the correct force for the cartridge itself. Check the cartridge specification first and then use the gauge to set the tonearm accurately.
Why Use an Electronic Stylus Gauge?
Many tonearms include markings around the counterweight that allow the user to set an approximate tracking force.
These are extremely useful during initial setup, but a separate electronic gauge provides a direct measurement at the stylus rather than relying solely on the calibration of the counterweight scale.
That makes a stylus balance useful both when setting up a cartridge from scratch and when checking a turntable that has already been adjusted.
0–5g Measuring Range
The Measure it E has a measuring capacity from 0 to 5g.
This covers the tracking-force requirements of the vast majority of conventional moving magnet and moving coil hi-fi cartridges.
The gauge is specifically intended for stylus tracking force measurement rather than use as a general-purpose weighing scale.
Never Exceed 5g
Pro-Ject specifically warns against loading the Measure it E with more than 5g. Overloading the measuring cell can permanently damage the gauge.
0.01g Measurement Increments
The Measure it E displays tracking force in 0.01g increments.
This provides a much finer indication than simply estimating the position of a tonearm counterweight scale and makes it straightforward to see the effect of small counterweight adjustments.
±0.01g Variance
Pro-Ject specifies the Measure it E with a variance of ±0.01g.
That makes it well suited to everyday cartridge installation, adjustment and checking without moving into the more elaborate construction of Pro-Ject's higher-level stylus balances.
Backlit LCD Display
The Measure it E uses an LCD display with automatic backlighting.
The backlight switches on when the gauge is powered up and switches off again when the unit is turned off.
This is particularly useful because the gauge is normally positioned low on the turntable platter where ambient light may not be ideal.
Four Weighing Modes
The MODE button switches between four measurement units:
- Gram: g
- Ounce: oz
- Pennyweight: dwt
- Carat: ct
For normal cartridge tracking-force adjustment, gram mode is the one most hi-fi users will require.
Grams and Millinewtons
Some cartridge manufacturers specify vertical tracking force in millinewtons rather than grams.
Pro-Ject gives the relationship as:
- 1g = 10mN
- 1.5g = 15mN
- 1.8g = 18mN
- 2.0g = 20mN
- 2.5g = 25mN
This makes converting a manufacturer's mN specification into a gram reading straightforward.
Automatic Calibration
The Measure it E can be calibrated using the supplied 5g reference weight.
Calibration provides a known reference for the measuring cell and is simple enough to perform whenever you want to confirm the gauge is operating correctly.
5g Calibration Weight Included
You do not need to source a separate calibration weight.
A 5g reference weight is supplied with the Measure it E and is used during the automatic calibration procedure.
Allow the Gauge to Stabilise Before Calibration
Pro-Ject recommends allowing approximately 30 seconds after switching on for the internal components to stabilise before calibrating the Measure it E.
How to Calibrate the Measure it E
The current Pro-Ject instructions specify the following procedure:
- Place the Measure it E on a level and stable surface.
- Switch the gauge on using the ON/OFF button.
- Wait until the display reads 0.00.
- Allow approximately 30 seconds for the internal components to stabilise.
- Press and hold the MODE button until the calibration indication and 5.00 appear.
- Place the supplied 5g calibration weight gently in the centre of the measuring platform.
- Wait for the calibration procedure to complete.
- Remove the calibration weight.
- Switch the gauge off.
Occasional 5.01g or 5.02g Calibration Reading
Pro-Ject notes that the display can occasionally show 5.01g or 5.02g instead of exactly 5.00g during the calibration routine.
The manufacturer states that this is not considered a defect and does not affect the calibration procedure.
How to Measure Cartridge Tracking Force
Once calibrated, the Measure it E can be placed directly onto the turntable platter for tracking-force adjustment.
The stylus is lowered carefully onto the marked measuring point and the current force is displayed electronically.
Recommended Tracking Force Procedure
- Make sure the turntable is sitting on a level surface.
- Check the cartridge manufacturer's recommended tracking force.
- Remove the cartridge stylus guard.
- Remove the protective cover from the Measure it E.
- Place the gauge carefully onto the turntable platter.
- Switch the gauge on.
- Wait until the display reads 0.00.
- Allow approximately 30 seconds for the gauge to stabilise.
- Move the tonearm so the stylus is positioned directly above the marked measuring point.
- Lower the tonearm gently until the stylus rests on the measuring point.
- Read the tracking force from the display.
- Lift the tonearm.
- Adjust the tonearm counterweight as required.
- Repeat the measurement.
- Continue until the cartridge is set to the desired tracking force.
Lower the Stylus Gently
The cartridge stylus is delicate. Position it carefully over the marked measuring point and lower the tonearm in a controlled manner rather than dropping the stylus onto the platform.
Use a Level Turntable
Pro-Ject recommends carrying out tracking-force adjustment with the turntable itself sitting level.
A level playing surface is an important part of turntable setup generally and gives you a consistent reference when making tonearm adjustments.
Place the Stylus on the Marked Point
The measuring platform includes a marked point showing where the stylus should be positioned.
Move the headshell above the gauge and lower the stylus directly onto this point rather than placing it randomly elsewhere on the platform.
Adjust the Counterweight and Measure Again
If the measured tracking force is not correct, lift the tonearm before adjusting the counterweight.
Make a small adjustment, return the stylus to the Measure it E and check the reading again.
Repeating the measurement after each adjustment makes it much easier to approach the desired value accurately.
Tracking Force Is Only One Part of Cartridge Setup
Correct vertical tracking force is important, but it is not the only adjustment involved in installing a cartridge.
Depending on the turntable and tonearm, setup can also involve:
- Cartridge alignment
- Overhang
- Offset angle
- Anti-skating / bias
- Tonearm height
- Vertical tracking angle
- Azimuth
- Turntable levelling
Our Audio T article Synchronicity or Serendipity? Replacing Your Cartridge shows a tracking-force gauge being used as part of a complete cartridge installation, alongside cartridge alignment and the other setup stages.
Useful When Installing a New Cartridge
A new cartridge should be set to the tracking force recommended by its manufacturer rather than simply copying the setting previously used with another cartridge.
The Measure it E provides a quick way of confirming the new cartridge is actually operating at the desired force once the tonearm has been balanced and the counterweight adjusted.
Useful After Moving a Turntable
If a turntable has been transported, moved between rooms or had its tonearm counterweight disturbed, checking the tracking force again is sensible.
The Measure it E makes the check quick enough that there is little reason to rely on guesswork.
Useful for Periodic Setup Checks
Even when a cartridge has not been replaced, keeping a stylus gauge available allows you to confirm the setup periodically.
This is particularly useful after servicing, cleaning around the tonearm or any other work where the counterweight may have been moved.
Measure it E or Measure it DS?
Pro-Ject offers different stylus balances for different levels of setup and adjustment.
Measure it E
- Entry-level electronic stylus gauge
- 0–5g capacity
- 0.01g measurement increments
- ±0.01g variance
- 5g calibration weight supplied
- Compact 96 x 21 x 43mm body
- Ideal for normal cartridge setup
Measure it DS
- Higher-capacity precision gauge
- 0.01–200g capacity
- 0.01g precision
- Factory calibrated
- Non-magnetic measuring surface
- Designed for wide cartridge compatibility
- Useful for more advanced setup requirements
For straightforward tracking-force setup on a conventional hi-fi cartridge, the Measure it E provides the essential functionality in a small and affordable package.
30-Second Automatic Power Off
The Measure it E automatically switches itself off after approximately 30 seconds.
This helps preserve battery life when the gauge is being used occasionally for turntable setup rather than as an everyday piece of powered equipment.
Low Power Consumption
The compact electronic gauge is designed for low power consumption and operates from replaceable button-cell batteries.
There is therefore no mains adaptor or charging cable required.
LR43 / AG12 Button Batteries
The Measure it E uses 2 x LR43 / AG12 1.5V button cells.
Pro-Ject supplies the first pair of batteries with the gauge and also includes a second pair as backups.
Changing the Batteries
When the display fails to illuminate or the backlight becomes weak, the batteries may need replacing.
Pro-Ject recommends replacing both cells together and checking their polarity before refitting the battery cover.
Remove Batteries During Long-Term Storage
If the Measure it E will not be used for an extended period, Pro-Ject recommends removing the batteries from the gauge.
Useful Display Messages
The Measure it E can display status indications to help identify common setup problems.
- o_LD: More than 5g has been applied and the excessive load should be removed immediately.
- UNSt: The gauge is sitting on an unstable surface and should be moved to a stable, vibration-free location.
- Weak or absent display: The batteries may require replacement.
Stable, Vibration-Free Measurement
An electronic balance is sensitive enough to respond to movement around it.
When calibrating the gauge, position it on a solid and vibration-free surface. When measuring tracking force, make sure the turntable itself is stable and level.
Operating Temperature
Pro-Ject specifies an operating temperature between +10°C and +30°C.
Normal indoor hi-fi use falls comfortably within this range.
Compact Dimensions
The Measure it E is small enough to keep with the rest of your turntable setup tools.
Current dimensions are:
- Width: 96mm
- Height: 21mm
- Depth: 43mm
- Weight: 49g
Protective Storage Pouch
A protective pouch is supplied for storing the Measure it E when it is not being used.
This is particularly useful for a precision measuring device that may spend most of its life stored away until the next cartridge change or turntable adjustment.
What Comes in the Box?
- Pro-Ject Measure it E electronic stylus balance
- 5g calibration weight
- 2 x LR43 / AG12 button-cell batteries
- 2 x additional LR43 / AG12 backup batteries
- Protective storage pouch
- User guide
Key Features
- Pro-Ject Measure it E
- Electronic stylus balance
- Stylus tracking force gauge
- Vertical tracking force measurement
- 0–5g measuring capacity
- 0.01g measurement increments
- ±0.01g variance
- Backlit LCD display
- Four weighing modes
- Gram mode
- Ounce mode
- Pennyweight mode
- Carat mode
- 1g = 10mN conversion
- Automatic calibration
- 5g calibration weight supplied
- Approximately 30-second stabilisation time
- 30-second automatic power off
- Low power consumption
- 2 x LR43 / AG12 batteries
- 1.5V button cells
- Initial batteries included
- Backup batteries included
- Protective pouch supplied
- Overload indication
- Unstable-surface indication
- 10–30°C operating temperature
- 96mm width
- 21mm height
- 43mm depth
- 49g weight
- Suitable for cartridge installation
- Suitable for tracking-force checks
- Compact turntable setup tool
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pro-Ject Measure it E?
It is an electronic stylus balance designed to measure the vertical tracking force applied by a turntable cartridge.
Why do I need a stylus tracking force gauge?
It provides a direct measurement of the pressure being applied at the stylus rather than relying only on the markings around a tonearm counterweight.
What is the measuring range?
0 to 5g.
What measurement increments does it use?
The Measure it E provides readings in 0.01g increments.
What variance does Pro-Ject specify?
±0.01g.
Is 5g enough for a hi-fi cartridge?
Yes for the vast majority of conventional hi-fi moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, which normally operate well below the Measure it E's 5g maximum capacity.
Can I put more than 5g on the gauge?
No. Pro-Ject warns that exceeding 5g can permanently damage the measuring cell.
Does it have a backlit display?
Yes. The LCD backlight switches on automatically when the gauge is powered up.
What measurement units are available?
Gram, ounce, pennyweight and carat.
Which mode should I use for a cartridge?
Gram mode is the normal choice for cartridge tracking-force adjustment.
My cartridge specification is in mN. Can I still use it?
Yes. Pro-Ject specifies 1g as equivalent to 10mN, so for example 20mN corresponds to 2g.
Does it need calibration?
It can be calibrated using the supplied 5g reference weight.
Is the calibration weight included?
Yes. A 5g calibration weight is supplied.
How long should I wait before calibration?
Pro-Ject recommends approximately 30 seconds after switching the gauge on to allow the internal components to stabilise.
Where should the calibration weight be positioned?
Gently place it in the centre of the measuring platform during the calibration routine.
Why does my calibration sometimes show 5.01 or 5.02?
Pro-Ject states that an occasional 5.01g or 5.02g reading during calibration is not a defect and does not affect calibration.
Where do I put the Measure it E when setting tracking force?
Place it carefully on the turntable platter and position the stylus over the marked measuring point.
Should the turntable be level first?
Yes. Pro-Ject recommends using the gauge with the turntable on a level surface.
Where should the stylus sit on the gauge?
Lower it gently onto the black marked point on the measuring platform.
How do I change the tracking force?
Lift the tonearm, adjust the tonearm counterweight and measure again until the required force is reached.
Does the Measure it E tell me what tracking force my cartridge needs?
No. Check the cartridge manufacturer's specification first. The Measure it E then allows you to measure and set that force accurately.
Should I use less tracking force to reduce record wear?
No. Use the cartridge manufacturer's recommended value. Running too little force can cause mistracking rather than providing a useful benefit.
Does it set anti-skating?
No. The Measure it E measures vertical tracking force. Anti-skating or bias is a separate tonearm adjustment.
Does it align the cartridge?
No. Cartridge alignment requires a suitable alignment tool or protractor.
Can I use it after changing a cartridge?
Yes. Cartridge replacement is one of the main reasons to use an electronic stylus balance.
Can I use it to check an existing cartridge setup?
Yes. It is useful for periodic checks as well as initial installation.
What does o_LD mean?
It indicates an overload above 5g. Remove the excessive load immediately.
What does UNSt mean?
It indicates that the gauge is not sitting on a sufficiently stable, vibration-free surface.
Does it switch itself off?
Yes. Automatic power off operates after approximately 30 seconds.
What batteries does it use?
2 x LR43 / AG12 1.5V button cells.
Are batteries included?
Yes. One operating pair and an additional pair of backup batteries are supplied.
Should I remove the batteries when storing it?
If the gauge will not be used for an extended period, Pro-Ject recommends removing the batteries.
Does it come with a case?
A protective storage pouch is supplied.
How large is the Measure it E?
96mm wide, 21mm high and 43mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
49g.
What is the operating temperature?
Pro-Ject specifies +10°C to +30°C.
What is the difference between Measure it E and Measure it DS?
The Measure it E is the compact entry-level model with a 0–5g measuring range. The Measure it DS offers a much wider 0.01–200g range, factory calibration and a non-magnetic measuring surface.
Related Turntable Products and Advice
Why Buy the Pro-Ject Measure it E From Audio T?
Correct tracking force is only one part of getting a turntable and cartridge working properly. Audio T has decades of experience setting up turntables, fitting cartridges and making sure tonearms are correctly adjusted before they leave the store.
If you are fitting a new cartridge yourself, the Measure it E gives you a straightforward way to confirm the tracking force at home. If you would rather leave the complete setup to us, your local Audio T store can also help with cartridge fitting, alignment and turntable adjustment.
- In-store turntable advice
- Cartridge setup guidance
- Tracking-force advice
- Electronic stylus gauge guidance
- Counterweight adjustment advice
- Cartridge alignment guidance
- Anti-skating setup advice
- Turntable levelling advice
- Cartridge installation
- Replacement cartridge advice
- Turntable servicing advice
- General vinyl playback support
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store for advice on setting cartridge tracking force, fitting a replacement cartridge or getting the best from your turntable.