Audio-Technica VM540ML/H Turntable Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit Red

Excellent

Well, I posted a review last week with pictures but its not here… I wonder why Amazon? Pictured is the first one that I received with a crooked stylus. They sent me a replacement that was straight, but its not as paralleled to the grooves. I have a AT-LP120XBT-USB turntable. I followed the instructions directly from an Audio Technica technician (which I had to end up contacting again later on). I also listened to the same album right before with the AT95E cartridge, as well as after with the VM540ML/H combo. For some reason, the album skips with the latter, but not with the AT95E—if that makes any sense… It doesn’t seem as loud as the former cheaper cartridge either. However, some background noise that was formerly present is now much quieter, other than the now present skips. I also tested out Audio Intelligence multi-step cleaner (with different brushes), VS. L’Art Du Son cleaner, on opposing sides of the same record. I must admit, I preferred L’Art Du Son’s one step over Audio Intelligence, but it’s not recommended for really dirty to soiled records by itself. It also has a pleasant smell. FYI do NOT buy Mofi record brushes (from Amazon OR directly from Mofi). They will flake all over the record when applying virtually no pressure. I should’ve listened to the reviews. I’ll stick to the Mofi sleeves but that’s it. It’s sad that people can’t trust the biggest brand names in contemporary audio solutions.

Pretty easy replacement of the standard cartridge on my turntable. Found a comparison that concluded this was the best manageable priced upgrade. No doubt better sound. Need to do some more high volume listening soon!

Connected this to A-T LP120XUSB; the sound quality of my record collection circa 1980s is blowing my mind. Never heard these records sound this good, let alone newer 180g selections. Totally worth the expense!

Amazing results far surpassing hopes for improving overall sound from standard issue AudioTechnica cartridge setup the came with my AT LP120. Crisp highs, clear separation of instruments, drum kit pieces. Round, deep soundstage. Completely resolved muddy washed-out highs that I had previously attributed to speaker deficiencies. Wish I had done this years ago.

First of all, being pre-mounted is a real time saver! The sound is full and precise. No sound coloration and tracks very nicely. I would recommend

Improved sound quality noticeably. Easy install.

Con esta aguja ganas en detalle y profundidad del sonido. En mi caso venia de la aguja verde, de precio mucho más reducido, y con esta es como si los altavoces dejaran de estar encerrados

Purchased the cartridge mounted on the AT head-shell. The cartridge alignment was perfect on a protractor, out of the box. Other than for adjustment for vertical tracking force (2gm), the headshell clicked into place and was playing records within minutes. The sound is marvelous compared to a Music Hall generic cartridge with an elliptical stylus. No sibilance, no inner track distortion, has a tight bass and full sound. Most satisfying purchase of the year. This cartridge on vinyl could definitely give digitized recordings (maybe not DSD) a run for its money. For those sitting on the fence, this shouldnt be that hard a decision. Definitely audiophile grade and sounds marvelous on a Denon pre/Emotiva power/B&W speaker system.

Great upgrade for my AudioTechnica LP-120. Really opened up the range on the new & old vinyl.