Audio-Technica introduces the renewed VM cartridge lineup: the AT-VM700x/600x/500x series, now collectively known as the AT-VMx series.
“This first major update since 2016 delivers the best sound quality in the history of Audio-Technica’s VM cartridges and offers significantly greater ease of use for today’s vinyl enthusiasts,” the manufacturer states about the newly launched AT-VMx series.
This latest generation includes a wide range of cartridges designed for every type of user—from beginner vinyl lovers to seasoned audiophiles. The AT-VMx series offers options for every price range and a clear upgrade path, allowing users to progress within the series as their system and listening preferences evolve.
Ultra-Pure Copper Coil Wire
The new design features PCUHD® (pure copper with ultra-high ductility) as the coil wire in all models. This high-grade material delivers powerful low-frequency response and an expansive soundstage. Combined with a new, optimized coil structure using fewer windings, every VMx cartridge ensures rich, responsive, and highly musical sound reproduction.
Improved Usability
All models are now more user-friendly thanks to threaded mounting holes in each cartridge body, making installation on integrated tonearms simpler. Additionally, the new flip-down stylus guard features a V-shaped cutout, offering a clear view of the stylus tip for precise placement on the record. “The AT-VMx series delivers unmatched musicality and performance—whether you’re a casual listener or a demanding audiophile,” says Audio-Technica.
Models
Stereo Cartridges
- AT-VM510xCB: Entry-level model with a bonded conical stylus for stable tracking.
- AT-VM520xEB: Standard model with a bonded elliptical stylus, providing reduced distortion and better signal transfer.
- AT-VM530xEN: Premium model with a nude elliptical stylus, reducing the moving mass for improved performance.
- AT-VM740xML: Microlinear stylus for rich detail, broad soundstage, and powerful mids and lows.
- AT-VM745xML: Adds a boron cantilever for extended frequency response and detailed, immersive imaging.
- AT-VM750xSH: Shibata stylus excels in high frequencies and offers rich mid and low reproduction, with excellent imaging.
- AT-VM760xSL: Special line contact stylus with a finely polished tip for premium high-frequency response and spatial expression.
Mono Cartridges
- AT-VM610xMONO: Conical stylus with stable tracking under varied conditions.
- AT-VM670xSP: Bonded conical stylus with a 3.0 mil tip radius, ideal for SP records with wider grooves.
Specs
The key Features (in the manufacturer’s words):
- Balanced expressiveness and dynamics: Carefully selected materials and refined production result in a perfect balance of musical detail and dynamic impact.
- PCUHD® coil wire: Also used in high-end Audio-Technica cables, now featured for the first time as cartridge coil wire, ensuring powerful bass and a wide soundstage.
- Highly responsive sound: A redesigned generator with fewer windings improves responsiveness and preserves musical nuance.
- Boron cantilever: Featured in select models for rapid vibration transmission and dynamic precision.
- Variety of stylus options: From bonded conical to advanced line-contact styli, catering to different playback needs.
- Die-cast aluminum alloy chassis: Used in top models to suppress unwanted resonances and enhance sound quality.
- Center shield plate for channel separation: Minimizes crosstalk between left and right coils for accurate stereo reproduction.
- Mono wiring: On mono models, internal wiring links both channels to cancel lateral groove noise and reduce surface noise.
- Paratoroidal coil structure: Ensures efficient magnetic flux containment for improved linearity and energy efficiency.
- Improved mounting and visibility: Threaded mounting holes and a redesigned stylus guard aid in accurate installation and cueing.
- Reduced plastic packaging: New packaging reduces plastic use while maintaining secure cartridge protection.
Pricing
- Replacement styli available from €59
- Cartridge + headshell bundles (VM520xEB/H, AT-VM740xML/H, AT-VM750xSH/H) start at €199
- The Audio-Technica AT-VMx series is available now starting at €119
More information: www.audio-technica.com