tweaking sound alignment

[TheShanMan]

My 1956 B&W TV seems to have a slight alignment problem from what I gather (I'm still learning...). Fine tuning my channel either gives me a clear picture or clear audio but not both. Actually, there is a balance where both are acceptable but neither are as good as they could be. Am I correct in gathering that sound IF alignment is what's needed? If so, with it being as close as it is, can it be tweaked without the equipment normally associated with alignment (i.e. simply through observation of the TV)? At the moment, I have nothing more than an oscilloscope, though I'm never opposed to adding to my collection of tools.

Alternatively, could there be another cause? I read somewhere that consumer modulators produce poor signals. Could my modulator actually be producing a poor source signal? I'm keeping my eyes out for an agile modulator, so if the problem is actually the modulator, perhaps that would solve my problem.

I've also given thought to adding in a direct audio/video adapter (http://antiqueradio.org/A-V_AdapterForVintageTVs.htm) although if I'm able to get a good enough picture and sound, I'd rather keep it stock and watch "the old fashioned way".

[zeno]

Yes you can tweak the audio alignment. First make sure
the FT is proper. In one direction the pix will get wormy,
tear, buzz. From that point turn the other way till the pix
just clears up.
If you go too far the audio will drop & pix wash out.

Before tweaking try KNOWN good SIF & detector tubes.
Best to have new tubes if you align anyways. A minor recap
of the audio may help too but some should not be changed
unless you KNOW they are bad.

73 Zeno