I can highly recommend the AT - VM 95 ML. I just purchased the cartridge and headshell assembly together and considering the 1000 hours of playing time and how great it sounds I can definitely recommend it firsthand.
I'm actually getting ready to throw the ML stylus on mine. I was looking at the SH one, but from all the drops I've seen on YT, the ML just seems to sound better to me. The SH sound is more focused, but there seems to be more of a sense of space and air with the ML stylus that makes the performance seem more alive somehow.
I think i will buy it for the dual cs 2110 i get recently for free, instead of the 1987 genuine cartridge. With the good but ugly art dj preamplifier it would make a complete turntable set up for less than 100 euros.
Sounds very good. The CS2110 is a true 80s looker while the preamplifier indeed does have great sound. I heard one with a Technics SL1200, and it is not a let down.
Well done sir and I am presently installing a VM95C on my my SL-2500 MK II and like a little kid...anxiously await the performance!!! I too have the original 95E and it has been absolutely delightful for the past seven years but the new threaded slots are a welcome sight. THX again MERRY CHRISTMAS GOD BLESS U!!!
Thanks for this great video. I’ve taken your advice and bought the ML. A doddle to install on my Rega Planar 2. Superb sound and incredible stereo separation.
I am glad it performs well on a Rega. Mind you, the Planar 2 does come with the Rega Carbon, which is just a rebranded AT3600L cheapo cart. Anything that improves upon that is worth the effort!
A very informative video thank you for sharing. I am going to replace my old Linn K9 stylus with the Shibata as I believe it is a good fit on my first turntable. I am also going to buy the E cartridge for my second turntable to replace an ageing AT110 which I use for older second hand vinyl from car boot sales and eBay. I know I could just swap styluses but I enjoy having a couple of turntables. I do in fact have a third turntable a Dual CS505-3 that has an Ortofon OM cartridge that I allow my kids to use for their vinyl as I am paranoid that they will wreck my good stuff.
Is absolutely right. It's the only 78 I would want to own. As for the Hooters, Satellite was a UK hit in 1987. They were also responsible for songs like: Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper); One Of Us (Joan Osborne); Kiss The Rain (Billie Myers); Private Emotion (Ricky Martin); and Old Before I Die (Robbie Williams).
The AT-VM95 series is an incredible product upgrade and took Ortofon head on for performance and pricing. I do a fair amount of cartridge swapping and have enjoyed them incredibly. As much as i enjoy the 2m Blue and Bronze, the AT offerings offer improved performance at considerably less cost. Highly recommend these to anyone looking to enjoy their vinyl at a fraction of the cost of the 2m series. I have the VM95ML as my standard go-to stylus but also have the Shibata for the most prized vinyl in my collection. If you are looking for a new cartridge, i would say just do it with these AT-VM95s.
I have also 2 Dual 505 turntables and also the AT95E and the ATVM95EN and VM95C I tried them on my Dual 505 and i found that they sound great,i also installed the extra weight on the back of the counterweight so the whole counterweight came closer to the pivot point and balanced better. Those 95 series are excellent cartridges ✌️
I also installed the extra counterweight ring, as the increased mass of the cartridge required it. Some call it jerryrigging, but it allows everything to function properly. 😉
How does a Shibata compare to a Microline? That's the question that bothers me! It is an astonishing price for the Shibata. Just look at what Ortofon want for their 2M Black or OM40 - silly money.
@@Fluteboy The microline is a more modern profile that more closely mimics the cutting diamond used to cut records. The shibata is said to be a bit warmer and sweeter, with slightly less pronounced treble, but still has excellent detail and depth. Both the VM95ML and SH are great buys.
Keep in mind the Shibata stylus was created for quadraphonic records and boasted a FR from 15-45,000 hz. I don’t think any other profile ever matched that.
They’re both quite good, but the SH is rated at 800 hours, 200 less than the ML, despite being more expensive. But you can’t really go wrong with either one. I’m currently running my VM95 with an ML, and I’ll be getting an SH next just for a change.
Excellent demonstration of this very capable Audio Technica AT-VM95E phono cartridge! Thumbs up. I have a harman kardon T25 turntable belt drive, fitted with an older Audio Technica AT70 MM cartridge (not exactly sure of the model number) bought used but in good condition on ebay. I installed the headshell, adjusted the tonearm, and purchased, installed a new AT stylus. I also bought an Audio Technica AT95E phono cartridge thinking that maybe I can make a turntable. I am referring to the base, installing the motor. Furthermore, if I cannot construct the tonearm, then I'll buy it, and connect it to the base.
This is a very late response, I just viewed your video. Looks like the ML is a good choice, but your graphic of the 95’s variants helped me a great deal. Thanks.
thank you so much for the review, I had bought the vm95e and after reading the stuff , lets just say it leaves you unsure, I do however ave a question I just got my childhood realistic rd 8100 through my mom's passing . the memories of listening with my family had me in tears once i got it going , but back to point im a zeppelin floyd style listener , do you have a needle recommendation ? They say that turntable is a bit flat in the bottom end thank you
The Realistic looks like a good turntable - originally made by Hitachi. As for a suitable stylus, I changed from the Ortofon OM10 to the AT-VM95E in order to get greater treble content. That said, even the Ortofon was described as light in bass. Do pay a visit to the forum at vinylengine.com, where there are folk who know their stuff about styli. I only know what I have used! One thing is for sure - any new cartridge does require a good few hours of running-in, so try not to judge it straight out of the box.
Totally agree. As a fan of Rock, Metal and Punk I can confirm what you say. When I went back to vinyl, I purchuased a Technics SL-1200GR + Ortofon 2M Bronze PNP MKII which I've been using for 1 year. I started reading about this stylus and for the price, I decided to change it. A F****** BLAST. AT-VMN95E/AT-VMN95EBK is made for this type of music, it is not a question of money, but feelings. Is Ortofon 2M Bronze bad? No, It is not; but for rockers and headbangers the best option, not only for the money but also, and much more important, for quality and feelings, the Audio Technica is the best. Thanks a lot!
@@Fluteboy I strongly believe that for Rock or Metal the quality of ML is not better than the E. I would use the ML model if I listened to Jazz or Classical, even pop, but I am not into this music.
To ironMultimedia, I totally agree, I have a technics sl 1200g and was using a ortofon 2mm bronze cartridge, which sounded incredible, but for a change I bought the audio-technica VM95SH, and was blown away by it , I play alot of prog, Yes , Genesis etc and these modern reissues sound terrific, I've since bought the VM530EN which is excellent, really wide sound stage , and I also bought the AT VM95EN which is also excellent. Audio-technica makes really sweet cartridges, the days of buying expensive carts is now a thing of the past . Keep em spinning. 💯
I just found out about this cartridge and found one new on eBay for $50. Now I’m trying to figure out how good it is (VN95E). I figure this model is a good one to start off bc the cartridge are interchangeable. Oh and it’s going on a vintage Technics SL 1400 direct drive. Oh and in the late 80’s I manage to find 2 US Technics 1200 used for a British girl /friend so she could learn how to dj. She plugged them in a blew them up or short circuit both bc she didn’t change the voltage switch.
They should put the white version after the green one by price range. Didn’t know there was 6 versions and just ordered the green ones. Oh and thanks for the great review and the breakdown on the hours they will last. .
Hello in the specifications the AT-VM95SE and AT-VM95ML have different frequency response and outputs 4mv and 3.5mv. They are the same cartridge and these differences are caused by the stylus only?. Great Video!!!
Interesting observation. Output level is governed by the cartridge, and as they both come with the same, I feel we should be interrogating Audio Technica themselves!
@@Fluteboy I got the answer from AT Thank you for your inquiry. Yes, all of this is down to the diamond profile on the different stylus assemblies. The AT-VM95 series all feature the same generator (cartridge body) that is used on all these variants. The increased output on the 95E or C is as a result of the wider footprint (surface contact) that the diamond makes. The extended frequency response on the others is due to where the stylus makes contact deeper in the groove and retrieving even more information but less surface noise.
Something that everyone forgets when making a report on cartridge is the weight of these, each brand recommends a weight to calibrate the arm, which is the ideal weight of the VM 95e ?
The weight of the cartridge is 6.1g, and a tracking force of 2g is needed. My old Ortofon cartridge was 2.5g, and 1.5g of tracking force was needed. I did need to unscrew the counterweight a fair bit - to the point where it almost fell off! Adding an additional couterweight ring addressed this.
It seems that it is almost no difference in cost to purchase the VM 95ML stylus or the entire cartridge. At least on Amazon that's how it is here in the States at least. $150.00 for the stylus and $162.00 for the entire cartridge. This seems odd doesn't it? Should I just get the whole cartridge? If I get the stylus only it will be much easier to replace it than disconnecting those little wires and reconnecting them to the new cartridge and since I'm a little clumsy maybe just the stylus is the way to go for me? I have the VM 95E cartridge at present which came on my new AT- LP120 turntable (which I'm very happy with) and would like to upgrade. I mostly listen to big band/orchestra music such as Bert Kaempfert if that's relevant. Excellent video, you should have more views.
I should have more views, yes! Some patrons too wouldn't go amiss.... Apparently the new VM styli will happily fit on the old AT-95 cartridge, although it won't be the flushest of fit. That is one way to avoid the dreaded rewiring of a cartridge. You can also purchase the VM and chosen stylus prefitted on an Audio Technica headshell. It costs extra, but the headshell is a looker. The new VM cartridge does have a slightly higher output than its predecessor, and of course the mounted screw threads are a boon.
@@Fluteboy I decided to follow your recommendation about just getting the whole cartridge and headshell combo that way I can have an extra cartridge and stylus and headshell to easily switch out if I want. Thank you for your Sage advice!
That's not really all that unusual. Quite a few of the replacement styli out there are only slightly cheaper than the actual cartridge that they would go on.
How do you post videos spinning vinyl and not get blocked for copyright? I tried posting one today and got blocked immediately. I just put a new AT VM95EN on my turntable and wanted to show it off. Thanks.
It is so hard trying to properly demonstrate products. In this video I cut the song into 6 or 7 second bites, and still they pounced - and threatened removal if I did not retract my appeal. Hence the link to the audio in the description. It has become so petty. I guess the only usable rule is keep the clips UNDER 8 seconds and space them apart, so the bot doesn't seek to detect a continuous segment.
@@Fluteboy I do appreciate that now I dont have to think about that. Good point you mentioned too about the quality of the record.I have some that are not the best condition it should be interesting. thank you for the reply.
Thanks for the informative video! If everything goes well, the AT-VM95E will arrive tomorrow and replace the old AT-3600. I'm looking forward to Pink Floyd, Mark Knopfler and Yello :-)
Hello! How about the higher output XP cartridges? I know the XP styluses are mostly for DJ performance, but I'm piqued to swap the XP styluses for VM styluses on that cartridge as they're 100% compatible.
I did not know the XP cartridge had higher output. Mind you, the output of the regular cartridge is generous enough. Thought: wouldn't a higher output overload the phono circuit?
@@Fluteboy According to Audio Technica the output of both VM (4 mV) and the XP (5.5 mV) are within the range that almost any receiver can accept without noise or distortion. I've heard complaints that the VM cartridges are too silent. I guess people have to match the cartridges properly to their system. I'll use the XP styluses to track old vinyls, and the VMs for brand new ones, now that I made more research. I will get a VM cartridge to make a proper comparison later, as the one I got is the XP3 that came with my turntable.
If it sounds great on a ULM tonearm, it means that it will sound great on a Sony PS-X45 low mass tonearm too ? I'm desperately looking for a high compliance cartridge for that turntable and I cannot find one. The AT-VM95E looks like a great cartridge with upgradability, exactly what I want.
The AT-VM95E has a mass of 6.1g versus the 2.5g of the Ortofon OM10. This alone will add mass to the tonearm. We can also add a spacer weight inbetween the cartridge and the headshell, and some counterweights can have additional weight added to them. Some people will call this jerry-rigging, but it does work! High compliance cartridges are a rarity these days, and people are always recommending a second-hand Shure or Pickering cartridge with a Jico stylus. I personally cannot stand the 60s/70s appearance of the Pickering XV-15. The stylus on the front makes it look like the bottom lip of a spoilt child.... www.pickeringuk.com/625E.html
@@Fluteboy I wish I could do that on my Sony but I cannot since I don't have the extra counter weight sadly. Indeed, the pickering looks terrible! What piqued my interest was the fact that you used this cartridge on a ULM arm with good results. If the ATVM95E sounds great on my Sony PSX45, I will sell my Rega RP1, but if it sounds better on the RP1, I will sell the Sony haha. Very hard choice!
I switched out the cartridge on my 1983 Sony PS-T22 and got the C variant just to try out the new AT VM95 the wear on this is tremendous. 3.5 months and already it is beginning to break down. I think the 500 hours presented by AT is overrated. That said the sound it produces is absolutely spot on what I want out of this turntable And because I only need to swap out the stylus now I am eager to try the E variant and see if that makes a huge difference on this table. C stylus : 17.5 euro E stylus 29 Euro and ML 134 euro ( amazon nl prizes )
I have an ATLP120 with this cart. Yes, it hates dust and scratches. The needle broke off (my fault). And I'm (ironically) ready to go back to Ortofon. I like the warm "Easy" sound it makes and it plays my rock and roll just fine. Just my 2 cents.
@@ecinaz I don’t see why not. I am guessing that involves a Technics headshell mounted to an S shaped tonearm? That would allow you to align any stylus.
Nice. I thought that YT will automatically put in music artist credit on post. But of course, you made this video in 2019. Have rules changed as I see more and more credits and it appears that YT is placing them on people's videos?
If the beloved (!) copyright bot recognises the music, it will specify it in the video description, sometimes with a link to the song in question. I however, was forced to blank it or take a copyright strike, hence my link in the description. It's a lottery, that is for sure.
It won’t just stop working. After 300 hours of play, the _likelihood_ of a worn stylus is increased. A worn or chipped stylus will cause damage during play, and that is why they _advise_ changing it after that length of use. It may last longer, but the risk to your records will increase. It is better to replace a worn stylus than to ruin your records.
Your choice of Dual 505/2 (T/T) is far from the most neutral/transparent turntable required to make accurate assssments on phono cartridge performance. A basic Thorens, Rega -perhaps Pro-Ject- would be much better for cartridge performance evaluation. In any case, indeed, the original '95E' was a wonderful (high-value) cartridge; it's nice to see/hear its successor retained the virtues of the original. pj .
If I could afford a Rega, you know I would be using it! If anything it does provide greater clarity than the Ortofon OM I replaced, and for those curious, it hopefully demonstrates the continuation of quality compared to the original AT95.
@@Fluteboy A 'Rega' is not necessarily requiered. I recall back in the Dual 505-2 days Thorens had a TD-280? -I believe- model that was clearly a much better table. Interestingly, i jsut purchased a (used) Rotel 'RP-850' table/Jelco stock arm, threw on a Ortofon '2M Red' (awaiting the 2M Bronze) and am refamiliarizing myself with tables/LP's. Interestingly, I 'powered' both the table -and phono peramp- through one of (three) Bal./Symmetrical AC power supply and was stunned at the SQ improvement gained -particularly when the table was powered this way; incredible LF/bass and vocal quality improvement, improved staging, dynamics and overall clarity. pj
Probably not. On your turntable, Sony took an *Audio Technica AT3600L* and glued it into place. How considerate! The only real upgrade you can perform on this cartridge is to fit an *LP Gear CF3600LE* elliptical stylus onto that cartridge. Otherwise that turntable does not allow much scope for upgrading the cartridge.
I would choose either the C or E variant. The C would be best if you are playing a lot of used or worn records. If you want more detail, then the E will suit.
Interesting comparisons, thank you. The original AT95E: How long did it play before replacing the needle and was the needle conical or elliptical? Thank you.
@@Fluteboy If I were to buy the AT-VM95E cartridge and later on swapped out the VM95ML stylus would that be the same as buying the AT-VM95ML cartridge?
Thank You for the review. I am astonished of the short life time for this cartridge. If I listen 20 hours per week, in one year it will 1040 hours. Does it mean I need to replace the stylus every year ?? I find this short life time totally not acceptable. What about other cartridges like REGA, GRADO, SUMIKO etc. Do they also have a similar life span as the Audio Technica cartridge ?
The lifetime hours of a stylus are only _really_ a guideline. See them as the minimum you can expect from normal use. If you care for your stylus, such as brush it to remove any detritus, and generally do not drop it onto the record surface, then you can expect a longer life. Using an older stylus is a gamble - a worn or chipped stylus will instantly ruin a record, so naturally the stylus vendors will encourage us to replace often, which involves giving them our money. If it sounds clean and pristine, you are OK, but keep a spare stylus on hand should any degradation rear it ugly head.
don't get a MC (moving coil ) cartridge - generally the stylus isn't replaceable, Ya have to buy a totally new cart. granted that is usually less than $50. comparing new stylus or complete cartridge , example Orto 2m blue - new cart. $ 240 . new stylus only - $200.
never understood how a diamond can wear down on a piece of plastic, the hardest known element or is it bullshit by manufacturers to sell ? I have diamond drills can cut through fukkin granite, is plastic that hard?
300 hours is nonsense, all carts last at least twice that long and sound great all the time. They just want you to upgrade every year or so, don’t be fooled.
Exactly. I’ve had the AT95e for around 6 years now and i can’t tell you how many hours of use it’s had but I wanna say at least 800 hours. I am looking at the new one however, hence checking out your video!
The amount of time on a cartridge's stylus that you brought up is a very good point, Carl TV! From my experience, and especially a friend of mine who has thousands of records (no not hundreds, I did write thousands), you are mostly correct; very close to twice as long. If a vinyl record is wiped clean, and the stylus tip is cleaned with a special fluid, tracking force is right, then the running time of a stylus can be longer than a manufacturer recommends.
No it ain't: small-tipped conical (or bonded elliptical) styli does wear down, sometimes quite notably after 200-300 hours. Superior 'tips' (ML/Shibata, Nude Fine Line) will 'last' considerably longer due to it's greater contact area. pj
@@peterjasz2876 sounds like you’re selling a product to me 😉 those numbers are very conservatives estimates. They last at least x3 longer than advertised in my experience. They just want you to spend more money, it’s called marketing
@@orfeassalt3649 if i do switch to the new VMN95E can the original headshell that came on my Audio technica lp120 fit the new VMN95E cartridge and stylus ?
Personally I have only heard it with a couple of 7 inch singles. It is somewhat resilient to inner groove distortion. Using the following mini program "TemplateGen.EXE", I printed off a suitable protractor for my turntable. You need to know the spindle to pivot distance for your deck, but once aligned, the performance is impressive. 1drv.ms/u/s!AtSvXRovgyx_gcZ1jUp7_PqkiyyJZw
"For me" is right, I just bought a ATVM95E not long ago--lol In fact I have both the AT95E and the VM95E and love them both. I cant believe it took this long to put threaded inserts into the cartridge body, we went to the moon like 50 years ago and only now do we get threaded inserts-LOL
We can thank *Sony Music Entertainment* for that. I provided numerous seven second chunks to listen to, and they rejected my fair use claim, and said lose the music or lose your video and take a copyright strike. It is all so petty and spiteful. Read the video description and you will see a link to download the audio. It’s the only way I can assist you guys!
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I just purchased a AT-VM95SH, and I'm floored by the performance! Goodbye Ortofon.
What color tip is that one?
@@jacknjill3000 Poo brown
I can highly recommend the AT - VM 95 ML. I just purchased the cartridge and headshell assembly together and considering the 1000 hours of playing time and how great it sounds I can definitely recommend it firsthand.
Terrific! Enjoy!
I'm actually getting ready to throw the ML stylus on mine. I was looking at the SH one, but from all the drops I've seen on YT, the ML just seems to sound better to me. The SH sound is more focused, but there seems to be more of a sense of space and air with the ML stylus that makes the performance seem more alive somehow.
I think i will buy it for the dual cs 2110 i get recently for free, instead of the 1987 genuine cartridge. With the good but ugly art dj preamplifier it would make a complete turntable set up for less than 100 euros.
Sounds very good. The CS2110 is a true 80s looker while the preamplifier indeed does have great sound. I heard one with a Technics SL1200, and it is not a let down.
Well done sir and I am presently installing a VM95C on my my SL-2500 MK II and like a little kid...anxiously await the performance!!! I too have the original 95E and it has been absolutely delightful for the past seven years but the new threaded slots are a welcome sight. THX again MERRY CHRISTMAS GOD BLESS U!!!
Thanks for this great video. I’ve taken your advice and bought the ML. A doddle to install on my Rega Planar 2. Superb sound and incredible stereo separation.
I am glad it performs well on a Rega. Mind you, the Planar 2 does come with the Rega Carbon, which is just a rebranded AT3600L cheapo cart. Anything that improves upon that is worth the effort!
Those mounting threads, genius!
Yeah and I love the newer mounting thread and just ordered this stylus. (VM-95E)
The square angular design of the AT-95E is very handy for setting cartridge alignment
A very informative video thank you for sharing. I am going to replace my old Linn K9 stylus with the Shibata as I believe it is a good fit on my first turntable. I am also going to buy the E cartridge for my second turntable to replace an ageing AT110 which I use for older second hand vinyl from car boot sales and eBay. I know I could just swap styluses but I enjoy having a couple of turntables. I do in fact have a third turntable a Dual CS505-3 that has an Ortofon OM cartridge that I allow my kids to use for their vinyl as I am paranoid that they will wreck my good stuff.
5:02 That was sampled by White Town in their song Your Woman. A favourite of mine! Never heard of the Hooters but will check them out.
Is absolutely right. It's the only 78 I would want to own.
As for the Hooters, Satellite was a UK hit in 1987. They were also responsible for songs like: Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper); One Of Us (Joan Osborne); Kiss The Rain (Billie Myers); Private Emotion (Ricky Martin); and Old Before I Die (Robbie Williams).
The AT-VM95 series is an incredible product upgrade and took Ortofon head on for performance and pricing. I do a fair amount of cartridge swapping and have enjoyed them incredibly. As much as i enjoy the 2m Blue and Bronze, the AT offerings offer improved performance at considerably less cost. Highly recommend these to anyone looking to enjoy their vinyl at a fraction of the cost of the 2m series. I have the VM95ML as my standard go-to stylus but also have the Shibata for the most prized vinyl in my collection. If you are looking for a new cartridge, i would say just do it with these AT-VM95s.
There are very good cartridges!! Shibata is the bomb! You don't need more dollar cartridges, shibata will do its job!
Thanks for the great review and mentioning the rock music preference. I'm all in.
I have also 2 Dual 505 turntables and also the AT95E and the ATVM95EN and VM95C
I tried them on my Dual 505 and i found that they sound great,i also installed the extra weight on the back of the counterweight so the whole counterweight came closer to the pivot point and balanced better.
Those 95 series are excellent cartridges ✌️
I also installed the extra counterweight ring, as the increased mass of the cartridge required it. Some call it jerryrigging, but it allows everything to function properly. 😉
@@Fluteboy Don't listen to what "they" say... just listen with your ears your music...✌️
Has anyone else taken the plunge for the VM95SH? I've been really pleased how good it sounds for the price.
How does a Shibata compare to a Microline? That's the question that bothers me! It is an astonishing price for the Shibata. Just look at what Ortofon want for their 2M Black or OM40 - silly money.
@@Fluteboy The microline is a more modern profile that more closely mimics the cutting diamond used to cut records. The shibata is said to be a bit warmer and sweeter, with slightly less pronounced treble, but still has excellent detail and depth. Both the VM95ML and SH are great buys.
@@scottspencer4018 Perfect description. Many thanks.
Keep in mind the Shibata stylus was created for quadraphonic records and boasted a FR from 15-45,000 hz. I don’t think any other profile ever matched that.
They’re both quite good, but the SH is rated at 800 hours, 200 less than the ML, despite being more expensive. But you can’t really go wrong with either one. I’m currently running my VM95 with an ML, and I’ll be getting an SH next just for a change.
Interesting to see this review! I've subscribed!
Thank you truly.
Excellent demonstration of this very capable Audio Technica AT-VM95E phono cartridge! Thumbs up. I have a harman kardon T25 turntable belt drive, fitted with an older Audio Technica AT70 MM cartridge (not exactly sure of the model number) bought used but in good condition on ebay. I installed the headshell, adjusted the tonearm, and purchased, installed a new AT stylus. I also bought an Audio Technica AT95E phono cartridge thinking that maybe I can make a turntable.
I am referring to the base, installing the motor. Furthermore, if I cannot construct the tonearm, then I'll buy it, and connect it to the base.
That is a nice looking turntable. The generous platter looks somewhat modern in a Rega kind of way.
@@Fluteboy Thank you.
This is a very late response, I just viewed your video. Looks like the ML is a good choice, but your graphic of the 95’s variants helped me a great deal. Thanks.
The ML does indeed offer the best bang for buck, if you are able to afford the initial cost. Many people seem to choose that option.
thank you so much for the review, I had bought the vm95e and after reading the stuff , lets just say it leaves you unsure, I do however ave a question I just got my childhood realistic rd 8100 through my mom's passing . the memories of listening with my family had me in tears once i got it going , but back to point im a zeppelin floyd style listener , do you have a needle recommendation ? They say that turntable is a bit flat in the bottom end thank you
The Realistic looks like a good turntable - originally made by Hitachi. As for a suitable stylus, I changed from the Ortofon OM10 to the AT-VM95E in order to get greater treble content. That said, even the Ortofon was described as light in bass. Do pay a visit to the forum at vinylengine.com, where there are folk who know their stuff about styli. I only know what I have used!
One thing is for sure - any new cartridge does require a good few hours of running-in, so try not to judge it straight out of the box.
treble response is very clean
Totally agree. As a fan of Rock, Metal and Punk I can confirm what you say. When I went back to vinyl, I purchuased a Technics SL-1200GR + Ortofon 2M Bronze PNP MKII which I've been using for 1 year. I started reading about this stylus and for the price, I decided to change it. A F****** BLAST. AT-VMN95E/AT-VMN95EBK is made for this type of music, it is not a question of money, but feelings. Is Ortofon 2M Bronze bad? No, It is not; but for rockers and headbangers the best option, not only for the money but also, and much more important, for quality and feelings, the Audio Technica is the best. Thanks a lot!
As good as the 2M Bronze is, the AT is able to convey the emotion of the music. You want more than just sonic wallpaper.
@@Fluteboy I strongly believe that for Rock or Metal the quality of ML is not better than the E. I would use the ML model if I listened to Jazz or Classical, even pop, but I am not into this music.
To ironMultimedia, I totally agree, I have a technics sl 1200g and was using a ortofon 2mm bronze cartridge, which sounded incredible, but for a change I bought the audio-technica VM95SH, and was blown away by it , I play alot of prog, Yes , Genesis etc and these modern reissues sound terrific, I've since bought the VM530EN which is excellent, really wide sound stage , and I also bought the AT VM95EN which is also excellent. Audio-technica makes really sweet cartridges, the days of buying expensive carts is now a thing of the past . Keep em spinning. 💯
I just found out about this cartridge and found one new on eBay for $50. Now I’m trying to figure out how good it is (VN95E). I figure this model is a good one to start off bc the cartridge are interchangeable. Oh and it’s going on a vintage Technics SL 1400 direct drive.
Oh and in the late 80’s I manage to find 2 US Technics 1200 used for a British girl /friend so she could learn how to dj. She plugged them in a blew them up or short circuit both bc she didn’t change the voltage switch.
They should put the white version after the green one by price range. Didn’t know there was 6 versions and just ordered the green ones. Oh and thanks for the great review and the breakdown on the hours they will last. .
I have the cartridge AT 11E. Can i replace the styus,ATS 11E, with the new freen one?
Probably not. The new stylus housing would not fit over the cartridge body.
Hello in the specifications the AT-VM95SE and AT-VM95ML have different frequency response and outputs 4mv and 3.5mv. They are the same cartridge and these differences are caused by the stylus only?. Great Video!!!
Interesting observation. Output level is governed by the cartridge, and as they both come with the same, I feel we should be interrogating Audio Technica themselves!
@@Fluteboy I got the answer from AT
Thank you for your inquiry.
Yes, all of this is down to the diamond profile on the different stylus assemblies.
The AT-VM95 series all feature the same generator (cartridge body) that is used on all these variants. The increased output on the 95E or C is as a result of the wider footprint (surface contact) that the diamond makes.
The extended frequency response on the others is due to where the stylus makes contact deeper in the groove and retrieving even more information but less surface noise.
Something that everyone forgets when making a report on cartridge is the weight of these, each brand recommends a weight to calibrate the arm, which is the ideal weight of the VM 95e ?
The weight of the cartridge is 6.1g, and a tracking force of 2g is needed.
My old Ortofon cartridge was 2.5g, and 1.5g of tracking force was needed.
I did need to unscrew the counterweight a fair bit - to the point where it almost fell off! Adding an additional couterweight ring addressed this.
It seems that it is almost no difference in cost to purchase the VM 95ML stylus or the entire cartridge. At least on Amazon that's how it is here in the States at least. $150.00 for the stylus and $162.00 for the entire cartridge. This seems odd doesn't it? Should I just get the whole cartridge? If I get the stylus only it will be much easier to replace it than disconnecting those little wires and reconnecting them to the new cartridge and since I'm a little clumsy maybe just the stylus is the way to go for me? I have the VM 95E cartridge at present which came on my new AT- LP120 turntable (which I'm very happy with) and would like to upgrade. I mostly listen to big band/orchestra music such as Bert Kaempfert if that's relevant. Excellent video, you should have more views.
I should have more views, yes! Some patrons too wouldn't go amiss....
Apparently the new VM styli will happily fit on the old AT-95 cartridge, although it won't be the flushest of fit. That is one way to avoid the dreaded rewiring of a cartridge. You can also purchase the VM and chosen stylus prefitted on an Audio Technica headshell. It costs extra, but the headshell is a looker.
The new VM cartridge does have a slightly higher output than its predecessor, and of course the mounted screw threads are a boon.
@@Fluteboy I have the newer VM 95 cartridge with the screw mounts so a new ml stylus should fit correctly shouldn't it?
Tailor made, yes. Enjoy it. I will envy you! ;)
@@Fluteboy I decided to follow your recommendation about just getting the whole cartridge and headshell combo that way I can have an extra cartridge and stylus and headshell to easily switch out if I want. Thank you for your Sage advice!
That's not really all that unusual. Quite a few of the replacement styli out there are only slightly cheaper than the actual cartridge that they would go on.
A very honest and detailed review. Thanks. Love from Bangladesh
Nice one with the Hooters, very cool band.
How do you post videos spinning vinyl and not get blocked for copyright? I tried posting one today and got blocked immediately. I just put a new AT VM95EN on my turntable and wanted to show it off. Thanks.
It is so hard trying to properly demonstrate products. In this video I cut the song into 6 or 7 second bites, and still they pounced - and threatened removal if I did not retract my appeal. Hence the link to the audio in the description. It has become so petty. I guess the only usable rule is keep the clips UNDER 8 seconds and space them apart, so the bot doesn't seek to detect a continuous segment.
Try to play old songs...
I'm currently using a Stanton 500 and I'm not keen so I'm going to get one of these
I am guessing that has a conical stylus and is more suited to DJ use. This one will reveal more for you.
hi I noticed the needle is pretty small.Is that normal for this AT VM95E.
Just got one but it hard to see the needle its so small.
It is normal. A very fine needle for a very fine task!
@@Fluteboy I do appreciate that now I dont have to think about that.
Good point you mentioned too about the quality of the record.I have some that are not the best condition it should be interesting.
thank you for the reply.
Thanks for the informative video! If everything goes well, the AT-VM95E will arrive tomorrow and replace the old AT-3600. I'm looking forward to Pink Floyd, Mark Knopfler and Yello :-)
I thought it was a bad idea to install an elliptical stylus on a straight tonearm as it may cause damage. Is that not true?
Untrue. Either stylus can be installed on either tonearm. Whoever got you believing that is a plank!
Hello!
How about the higher output XP cartridges?
I know the XP styluses are mostly for DJ performance, but I'm piqued to swap the XP styluses for VM styluses on that cartridge as they're 100% compatible.
I did not know the XP cartridge had higher output. Mind you, the output of the regular cartridge is generous enough. Thought: wouldn't a higher output overload the phono circuit?
@@Fluteboy
According to Audio Technica the output of both VM (4 mV) and the XP (5.5 mV) are within the range that almost any receiver can accept without noise or distortion.
I've heard complaints that the VM cartridges are too silent. I guess people have to match the cartridges properly to their system.
I'll use the XP styluses to track old vinyls, and the VMs for brand new ones, now that I made more research. I will get a VM cartridge to make a proper comparison later, as the one I got is the XP3 that came with my turntable.
If it sounds great on a ULM tonearm, it means that it will sound great on a Sony PS-X45 low mass tonearm too ? I'm desperately looking for a high compliance cartridge for that turntable and I cannot find one. The AT-VM95E looks like a great cartridge with upgradability, exactly what I want.
The AT-VM95E has a mass of 6.1g versus the 2.5g of the Ortofon OM10. This alone will add mass to the tonearm. We can also add a spacer weight inbetween the cartridge and the headshell, and some counterweights can have additional weight added to them. Some people will call this jerry-rigging, but it does work!
High compliance cartridges are a rarity these days, and people are always recommending a second-hand Shure or Pickering cartridge with a Jico stylus. I personally cannot stand the 60s/70s appearance of the Pickering XV-15. The stylus on the front makes it look like the bottom lip of a spoilt child....
www.pickeringuk.com/625E.html
@@Fluteboy I wish I could do that on my Sony but I cannot since I don't have the extra counter weight sadly.
Indeed, the pickering looks terrible!
What piqued my interest was the fact that you used this cartridge on a ULM arm with good results. If the ATVM95E sounds great on my Sony PSX45, I will sell my Rega RP1, but if it sounds better on the RP1, I will sell the Sony haha. Very hard choice!
I switched out the cartridge on my 1983 Sony PS-T22 and got the C variant just to try out the new AT VM95 the wear on this is tremendous. 3.5 months and already it is beginning to break down. I think the 500 hours presented by AT is overrated. That said the sound it produces is absolutely spot on what I want out of this turntable And because I only need to swap out the stylus now I am eager to try the E variant and see if that makes a huge difference on this table. C stylus : 17.5 euro E stylus 29 Euro and ML 134 euro ( amazon nl prizes )
That is very disappointing, the time you got from your stylus. The E stylus is very good and is still affordable.
I have an ATLP120 with this cart. Yes, it hates dust and scratches. The needle broke off (my fault). And I'm (ironically) ready to go back to Ortofon. I like the warm "Easy" sound it makes and it plays my rock and roll just fine. Just my 2 cents.
Great stuff! Everyone has their preferred sound. I am considering getting the blue conical stylus just for playing the worn and scratched records.
Can i set up the ATVM95e with a technics overhang guage?
@@ecinaz I don’t see why not. I am guessing that involves a Technics headshell mounted to an S shaped tonearm? That would allow you to align any stylus.
Nice. I thought that YT will automatically put in music artist credit on post. But of course, you made this video in 2019. Have rules changed as I see more and more credits and it appears that YT is placing them on people's videos?
If the beloved (!) copyright bot recognises the music, it will specify it in the video description, sometimes with a link to the song in question. I however, was forced to blank it or take a copyright strike, hence my link in the description. It's a lottery, that is for sure.
It is without question a fantastic cartridge! The nude version is even better! Credit where credit is due and this is a fine review!
@@theman36 The appreciation of you and others is so wonderful. Thank you for sharing, and happy listening most of all! 😉
Just subscribed great info love it 👍☺️
I got AT-VM95E, wondering what happens after 300 hours, it stops working or the sound quality becomes very poor?
It won’t just stop working. After 300 hours of play, the _likelihood_ of a worn stylus is increased. A worn or chipped stylus will cause damage during play, and that is why they _advise_ changing it after that length of use. It may last longer, but the risk to your records will increase. It is better to replace a worn stylus than to ruin your records.
Your choice of Dual 505/2 (T/T) is far from the most neutral/transparent turntable required to make accurate assssments on phono cartridge performance. A basic Thorens, Rega -perhaps Pro-Ject- would be much better for cartridge performance evaluation.
In any case, indeed, the original '95E' was a wonderful (high-value) cartridge; it's nice to see/hear its successor retained the virtues of the original.
pj
.
If I could afford a Rega, you know I would be using it! If anything it does provide greater clarity than the Ortofon OM I replaced, and for those curious, it hopefully demonstrates the continuation of quality compared to the original AT95.
@@Fluteboy A 'Rega' is not necessarily requiered. I recall back in the Dual 505-2 days Thorens had a TD-280? -I believe- model that was clearly a much better table.
Interestingly, i jsut purchased a (used) Rotel 'RP-850' table/Jelco stock arm, threw on a Ortofon '2M Red' (awaiting the 2M Bronze) and am refamiliarizing myself with tables/LP's. Interestingly, I 'powered' both the table -and phono peramp- through one of (three) Bal./Symmetrical AC power supply and was stunned at the SQ improvement gained -particularly when the table was powered this way; incredible LF/bass and vocal quality improvement, improved staging, dynamics and overall clarity.
pj
im hearing great things abhout the VM95ML and SH, but im not ready to drop 150-180 bucks just for the needle!
Do you know if I can fit this on my Sony PS LX310bt
Probably not. On your turntable, Sony took an *Audio Technica AT3600L* and glued it into place. How considerate! The only real upgrade you can perform on this cartridge is to fit an *LP Gear CF3600LE* elliptical stylus onto that cartridge. Otherwise that turntable does not allow much scope for upgrading the cartridge.
What is the song on the Decca 78?
*My Woman* by Lew Stone and his Monseigneur Band. It was sampled in the White Town song *Your Woman.*
@@Fluteboy Thanks! It sounded really familiar.
This cartdridge can be used for DJ?
Using one of their XP styli, yes.
5:18 absolutely amazing🤣🤣
Would this be a good cartridge to use to clean up the sound on older shellac 78s.
As long as you are using the grey SP stylus with 3mm tip, then yes. Certainly a cheaper option than the Ortofon 2M alternative.
Fluteboy Best one for Hip Hop & Dance Music?
I would choose either the C or E variant. The C would be best if you are playing a lot of used or worn records. If you want more detail, then the E will suit.
Interesting comparisons, thank you. The original AT95E: How long did it play before replacing the needle and was the needle conical or elliptical? Thank you.
The original AT95E is also an elliptical that gives 300 hours of play. The VM95E is just a direct replacement.
Who keeps track of the number of hours they play records?
@@Fluteboy If I were to buy the AT-VM95E cartridge and later on swapped out the VM95ML stylus would that be the same as buying the AT-VM95ML cartridge?
@@nanchanger Yes. The one cartridge is compatible with every stylus.
@@Fluteboy thank you, working on restoring a Sony PS-T3
Thank You for the review. I am astonished of the short life time for this cartridge. If I listen 20 hours per week, in one year it will 1040 hours. Does it mean I need to replace the stylus every year ?? I find this short life time totally not acceptable. What about other cartridges like REGA, GRADO, SUMIKO etc. Do they also have a similar life span as the Audio Technica cartridge ?
The lifetime hours of a stylus are only _really_ a guideline. See them as the minimum you can expect from normal use. If you care for your stylus, such as brush it to remove any detritus, and generally do not drop it onto the record surface, then you can expect a longer life. Using an older stylus is a gamble - a worn or chipped stylus will instantly ruin a record, so naturally the stylus vendors will encourage us to replace often, which involves giving them our money. If it sounds clean and pristine, you are OK, but keep a spare stylus on hand should any degradation rear it ugly head.
don't get a MC (moving coil ) cartridge - generally the stylus isn't replaceable, Ya have to buy a totally new cart. granted that is usually less than $50. comparing new stylus or complete cartridge , example Orto 2m blue - new cart. $ 240 . new stylus only - $200.
never understood how a diamond can wear down on a piece of plastic, the hardest known element or is it bullshit by manufacturers to sell ? I have diamond drills can cut through fukkin granite, is plastic that hard?
What is Captain Price doing reviewing turntable cartridges
Not being a *Call Of Duty* aficionado, I’ll just have to take your word for it!
300 hours is nonsense, all carts last at least twice that long and sound great all the time. They just want you to upgrade every year or so, don’t be fooled.
And who keeps a stopwatch with them when playing vinyl? Ticking off the hours on a clipboard? Something to think about!
Exactly. I’ve had the AT95e for around 6 years now and i can’t tell you how many hours of use it’s had but I wanna say at least 800 hours. I am looking at the new one however, hence checking out your video!
The amount of time on a cartridge's stylus that you brought up is a very good point, Carl TV! From my experience, and especially a friend of mine who has thousands of records (no not hundreds, I did write thousands), you are mostly correct; very close to twice as long. If a vinyl record is wiped clean, and the stylus tip is cleaned with a special fluid, tracking force is right, then the running time of a stylus can be longer than a manufacturer recommends.
No it ain't: small-tipped conical (or bonded elliptical) styli does wear down, sometimes quite notably after 200-300 hours. Superior 'tips' (ML/Shibata, Nude Fine Line) will 'last' considerably longer due to it's greater contact area.
pj
@@peterjasz2876 sounds like you’re selling a product to me 😉 those numbers are very conservatives estimates. They last at least x3 longer than advertised in my experience. They just want you to spend more money, it’s called marketing
Can i play mono Records on microline stylus?
Of course. Any standard stylus will suffice.
@@Fluteboy thanks becouse i Got mono Records from 50's and 60's 🙂
@@Fluteboy i know but i want to ubgrade to microline stylus and still play my mono records
Great review Thank You!
Will the AT-VMN95E fit on my AT-95E original cartridge?
Yes. It won't be a flush fit, but the new styli are able to fit the old cartridge.
yes
@@orfeassalt3649 if i do switch to the new VMN95E can the original headshell that came on my Audio technica lp120 fit the new VMN95E cartridge and stylus ?
@@stephenbayer09 I'm also interested in this one!
@@stephenbayer09 I'm wondering the same, did you end up being able to use it on the LP120?
How does this respond to inner track distortion?
Personally I have only heard it with a couple of 7 inch singles. It is somewhat resilient to inner groove distortion. Using the following mini program "TemplateGen.EXE", I printed off a suitable protractor for my turntable. You need to know the spindle to pivot distance for your deck, but once aligned, the performance is impressive.
1drv.ms/u/s!AtSvXRovgyx_gcZ1jUp7_PqkiyyJZw
Ok, then, I will buy this cartridge. Thanks!
Andre Zorrilla it does suffer distortion in the inner groove and not forgiving with scratches ect , upgrade to the ML or better still SH
No one likes fluffin' around with their nuts. That's very true.
It kinda looks like the head of some kind of reptilian creature from Doctor Who.
Haha. @5:18. Giggles.
And I still get that! _"The OM was designed for it! Why change it?!"_
@@Fluteboy Haha. The cartridge is the most important part on the turntable.
It aint 45 pounds any more-!
That’s inflation for you!
"For me" is right, I just bought a ATVM95E not long ago--lol In fact I have both the AT95E and the VM95E and love them both. I cant believe it took this long to put threaded inserts into the cartridge body, we went to the moon like 50 years ago and only now do we get threaded inserts-LOL
Absolutely zero point in playing two second bursts of sound as a sample - duh.
We can thank *Sony Music Entertainment* for that. I provided numerous seven second chunks to listen to, and they rejected my fair use claim, and said lose the music or lose your video and take a copyright strike. It is all so petty and spiteful. Read the video description and you will see a link to download the audio. It’s the only way I can assist you guys!
@@Fluteboy yeah the dang copyright thing is so over done
китайзский ширпотреб
Bellissimo video ho sostituito la testina col nuovo modello vm95 e/h tutto un'altra musica.