Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge
Best entry-level cartridge for vinyl enthusiasts seeking easy installation and upgrades.
Elevate your vinyl experience with the Audio-Technica AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge. Designed for standard half-inch mount turntables, this cartridge features a durable, low-resonance polymer housing for stable performance. Its specially wound coils increase output voltage, delivering a clear and powerful audio signal. The threaded inserts simplify mounting, making installation a breeze. Compatible with the entire VM95 Series stylus line, it offers exceptional versatility and long-term value for discerning listeners seeking outstanding tonal quality.
$74.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
173
/ 1637
#173 in Turntable Accessories
Price vs Category Average
-94%
Below average
Stylus Shape
Shibata
/ Shibata
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-fidelity audio performance
- Vinyl collectors planning future stylus upgrades
- Beginners needing simple installation and reliable tracking
Who should skip it
- Audiophiles preferring a warmer, more mellow sound profile
- Critical listeners sensitive to inner groove distortion
- Users who struggle with fiddly, basic mounting hardware
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Dual magnet design delivers crisp, detailed sound across the frequency range.
Installation Ease
Threaded inserts make mounting straightforward for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Upgrade Path
Full compatibility with the VM95 stylus line offers excellent long-term flexibility.
Build Quality
Low-resonance polymer housing provides a stable and durable foundation for playback.
Signal Output
High output voltage ensures a strong, clean signal for most phono stages.
Tracking Precision
Aluminum cantilever construction maintains accurate groove contact for consistent audio performance.
Key Specs
Stylus Shape
Shibata
Cantilever
Aluminum pipe
Mounting Type
Standard 1/2 Inch
Cartridge Type
Dual Moving Magnet (MM)
Frequency Response
20-25,000 Hz
Recommended Load Impedance
47,000 ohms
Output Level
4.0 mV
Housing Material
Low-resonance polymer
Features
- Dual magnet design for clear audio
- Durable, low-resonance housing
- Easy mounting with threaded inserts
- Interchangeable stylus system
- High output voltage for better signal strength
- Compatible with VM95 Series styli
What customers say
The Audio-Technica AT-VM95E is celebrated for its outstanding value, offering exceptional sound quality that punches well above its affordable price point. Many users find it a significant upgrade for entry level turntables, bringing improved clarity and sonic balance compared to standard cartridges. It delivers an engaging and fatigue free listening experience. The cartridge is also noted for its straightforward installation and durable construction. For those looking to enhance their vinyl playback without breaking the bank, the AT-VM95E consistently exceeds expectations, making it a highly recommended choice.
Know before you buy
The AT-VM95E is designed for standard half-inch mount tonearms, which covers the vast majority of modern and vintage turntables. If your headshell has two screw holes spaced half an inch apart, this cartridge will be compatible.
The threaded inserts allow you to mount the cartridge directly to the headshell using the included screws without needing separate nuts. This significantly simplifies the installation process and reduces the risk of dropping small hardware during setup.
Yes, the AT-VM95E is part of the VM95 Series, which features an interchangeable stylus system. You can easily swap in any other stylus from the VM95 line, such as the elliptical, microlinear, or Shibata versions, as your needs or budget evolve.
This is a Dual Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge, so it is designed to work with any standard MM phono stage or integrated amplifier with a dedicated 'Phono' input. It requires a standard load impedance of 47,000 ohms.
The dual magnet design is engineered to replicate the left and right channels of the record groove more accurately than single-magnet systems. This results in better channel separation and a clearer, more defined stereo image.
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