ORIGINAL: Charlie P.
No matter WHAT the plans say, I fly it to determine where the COG needs to be.
The initial balance is just so it survives the maiden and first few trim flights.
Well said Charlie!!
A machine for balancing is about as necessary as a plastic rubber band puller (Yes, you can buy one of those)
The "Recommended CG" is just a "Ball Park" starting point. Balance it with your fingers, then fly it and determine if and where you want to adjust it to.