If you have a laptop computer with a decent Soundblaster-compatible soundcard, there are some fairly good RTA programs out there, for free. I've aligned a couple of A-chains using an old scope and RTA freeware in the laptop, with good results (confirmed later with professional-quality RTA's). The real problem is that since the sound curve you see really isn't flat because of various laptop hardware limitations, you can't really trust the RTA all the way when adjusting the hf. You need a reference reel you really know, but then, you'd need one regardless of the quality of your RTA. Focusing the soundhead optics, on the other hand, becomes entirely possible and very reliable.

Aligning the B-chain using a freeware RTA isn't recommended, however. Even if you find a good microphone, the sound card will probably not give a flat curve, and most freeware RTA's don't have calibration functionality.

These days, I use a program called SpectraLab that makes the A-chain alignment fairly reliable. I'd still like to own a "real" RTA, though. (And a really good microphone, of course.)

I agree that it is possible to align an A-chain "by ear" only, but it's very time-consuming and requires a test reel (preferably several of them) you know well. Plus, of course, the usual test loops.

Yes, I agree, the Cat. 699 seems to get lower error numbers (well, bar graph) than the Cat. 700 running the same reel. I currently have a two projector set up where one has the 699 and the other has a 700 and the 699 wins every time.

The 699 is a machined unit whereas the Cat. 700 is cast but more likely the result has to do with the Cat. 699's ability to deal with speed anomolies. It has a spring loaded roller just prior to the sprocket that takes the shock out of bouncing film prior to the drum so it is rather smooth at that point. The Cat. 699 also has one more roller prior to the springed roller which yield a bit better guidance and works in conjunction with the springed roller. I think if the Cat. 699 had a more massive flywheel, like the Cat. 700 it would track even better.

My preference for penthouse readers are 699, 700 and 701, in that order. Kind of a digital regression!

Depending on the projector, I prefer basement readers, especially Component Engineering's Century Basement reader, your error numbers should be as low or lower than a penthouse reader with that system or you haven't set it up right.

Steve