Audio-Technica AT-VMN95ML Microlinear Replacement Turntable Stylus Red
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chraland1951
> 3 dayI am still breaking this stylus in. I swapped the ML with a fairly new E to save on the cartridge. I did again align the cartridge, balance the tonearm, adjust the tracking force and the anti-skate before starting the break-in. I have only played a half dozen or so LPs with it. It does seem to be improving with each record. I did notice that I had to increase the volume control about 10% to get the same level as with my other cartridges including the Goldring e3 and the Ortofon 2M Red. Right now, all that I can say based on my old, non-audiophile ears is that the solo instruments on classical, country and western and 60s-80s R&R records seem to be more clear and there does seem to be less cracks and pops on the, very familiar to me, records that I have played, likely due to the shape of the stylus. I do like the estimated 1000 hours of use for the stylus. That is something to consider when making a choice, The 95ML sounds promising and I will continue my break-in test. The ML does sound better than the AT95E, the stylus that was replaced on an AT headshell. However, I am not going to just yet mothball my e3 or 2M Red, both of which also sound pretty good to me.
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Artur Baryshev
> 3 dayGot this one for my AT-LP5x. Well, it sounds richer in high range and more clear at low range. Definitely, this is my main stylus now. But dont expect much for the money you paid. It has just a slight difference, and only if you have mid-hi quality audio system and good ears. Other than that, you will not hear much difference between your default stylus and this one. I use internal phono, maybe an external one will open it more for me. But again, if the money is not a problem - I recommend this one! Good upgrade, definitely.
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Nate
> 3 dayI absolutely love this stylus! I am not an audiophile with thousands of dollars in equipment. I like listening to vinyl records, but I do not consider vinyl to be the be-all, end-all of audio. I have a somewhat entry-mid level turntable, and I always swore I wouldnt pay for a stylus that costs nearly the same as the turntable itself; however, Im glad I reneged on that philosophy. I first bought the cartridge for this 15 months ago and purchased this as the first replacement for the stylus, but it very well could have lasted even longer! The sound quality never really diminished; I personally never noticed any distortion or sibilance or anything of the sort. Its pricey, but worth it!
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C. Taylor
23-11-2024I upgraded the stylus from the AT-VMN95E (Green Cart) on my Fluance RT81. The upgrade is as easy as switching the stylus - no rebalancing the tone arm needed. While the Green Cart is pretty good, the AT-VMN95ML (Red Cart) provides more detail and crispiness. Depending on the recording, you can hear more detail in the guitar strings and differentiation between the instruments with the Red Cart. If my budget was tight, I would stick with the Green Cart but I dont regret spending $149 for the incremental improvement of the Red Cart.
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Alex
> 3 dayThis entire time I thought some of my vinyls were just poorly pressed... clearly not the case after I installed this needle. Every one of my records now sounds inCREDIBLE I cannot even believe the difference. I went from A.M. Radio needle to FLAC needle in a matter of a very well spent $150. Whoever cant hear the difference between their stock needle & this one is either deaf or just does not care about their musics audio quality.
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Mr. Frog
> 3 dayIt makes great musical score sound great.
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Steve
> 3 dayI upgraded from a stylus lower in the AT-VMN line and couldn’t be happier. Very easy replacement, with clear instructions. It’s a great stylus.
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Robert M.
> 3 dayI upgraded the stylus that came with the AT record player to this stylus and the upgrade was well worth it. Sounds great. The customer support from AT is outstanding.
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StephanP
> 3 dayI replaced the stock stylus on my ATLP120XBT and the music sounds much cleaner and crisper. It is noticeable to me but may not be to others including my wife. Would i buy again? Yes absolutely
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Wes
> 3 dayDecided to put this to the test and spin the loudest record I own, Wrath by Lamb of God. On the VM95E, there was a lot of noticeable inner groove distortion due to how heavy and hard the music on it is. After upgrading to the VM95ML, that sibilance and distortion is greatly reduced. The guitar tracks are well balanced and Randy Blythes screaming sounds much more clear in comparison. If you want well-mastered pressings to sound even better, this upgrade is worth it. Even for budget Hi-Fi setups.