Audio Technica AT-VM95C/H
Audio-Technica AT-VM95C/H: Cartridge and headshell ready to use
A factory-mounted, aligned, and tested cartridge, ready to be inserted into a tonearm with a removable headshell: that’s what this kit offers. The AT-VM95C/H combines the entry-level cartridge of the VM95 series with the AT-HS6 headshell, forming a 15.5-gram assembly put together in Fukui, Japan. For anyone wanting to equip a turntable without going through the tedious steps of mounting and alignment, this turnkey solution offers a quick setup with no compromise on build quality.
A generator designed to last and evolve
The VM95 series cartridge body is based on a dual V-shaped moving magnet architecture, a technology Audio-Technica has been developing since the late 1960s. Two magnets positioned symmetrically on either side of the cantilever generate the signal for each channel independently, which improves stereo separation and reduces crosstalk compared with single-magnet cartridges.
The low-resonance polymer housing integrates threaded inserts directly. Mounting on a headshell or integrated arm therefore only requires two screws, with no nuts to handle—a practical detail that significantly simplifies installation for less experienced users.
The main advantage of this architecture lies in the interchangeability of the styli. The six VM95 series models—conical, elliptical, nude elliptical, Microlinear, Shibata, and 78 rpm—all share the same generator. Buying an AT-VM95C/H today doesn’t lock you into a fixed level of performance: you just need to swap the stylus to radically change the cartridge’s behavior, without touching the wiring or tracking force settings.
The conical stylus: simplicity and versatility
The conical stylus fitted to the AT-VM95C measures 0.6 mil (around 15 microns) in diameter and is mounted on an aluminum tube cantilever. This spherical profile makes relatively broad contact with the groove walls, which limits record wear and is more forgiving of alignment or azimuth approximations than an elliptical or fine-line stylus.
The frequency response covers the standard audible spectrum, from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with channel separation of 18 dB at 1 kHz. The generous 4.0 mV output voltage ensures direct compatibility with virtually all MM phono preamplifiers, without requiring any special gain adjustment.
The typical sound of a conical stylus favors energy and directness over analytical finesse. Bass is present and well defined, transients retain their punch, and the midrange remains intelligible even on older or worn pressings. In return, subtle ambient and spatial information remains more subdued than with more sophisticated profiles.
The AT-HS6 headshell: lightweight and functional
The headshell included in this kit is the AT-HS6BK, a die-cast aluminum model weighing 9 grams including wires. Its design is primarily focused on mechanical neutrality: the low mass limits the additional inertia on the tonearm, and the rigidity of the material avoids unwanted resonances within the audible spectrum.
The color-coded lead wires are terminated with gold-plated connectors, ensuring signal transmission without loss or long-term oxidation. A finger lift makes manual cueing of the stylus onto the record easier.
The universal ½” mounting standard (12.7 mm between fixing centers) makes this headshell compatible with Technics, Audio-Technica, Pioneer, Reloop turntables and most models equipped with an SME bayonet connector. For a turntable with an integrated arm and no removable headshell, the AT-VM95C cartridge alone is a more suitable option.
An entry-level option that doesn’t limit future upgrades
The AT-VM95C/H is suitable for various scenarios: a first serious turntable, replacement for an aging stock cartridge, or fitting a secondary arm for DJing or record digitization. The ready-to-use format removes the technical barrier of mounting, while compatibility with higher-end styli in the series provides a clear upgrade path without starting from scratch.
The fact that the assembly is put together and checked in Audio-Technica’s Fukui factory in Japan adds an extra layer of assurance: stylus alignment relative to the body, headshell wiring, and overall operation are verified before shipping, reducing the risk of unpleasant surprises upon delivery.
Technical specifications
Electrical specifications
- Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Channel separation: 18 dB at 1 kHz
- Output voltage: 4.0 mV at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
- Channel balance at output: 2.5 dB at 1 kHz
- Recommended load impedance: 47,000 Ω
- Recommended load capacitance: 100 - 200 pF
- Coil impedance: 3.3 kΩ at 1 kHz
- DC resistance: 485 Ω
- Coil inductance: 550 mH at 1 kHz
- Wire used for the coil: high-purity copper
Mechanical specifications
- Vertical tracking force: 1.8 to 2.2 g, standard value 2.0 g
- Vertical tracking angle: 23°
- Static compliance: 17 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
- Dynamic compliance: 6.5 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne at 100 Hz
- Cantilever: aluminum tube
- Cartridge type: VM stereo dual moving magnet
- Mounting: 12.7 mm spaced mounting holes
Stylus specifications
- Stylus type: conical
- Stylus size: 15 µm
- Stylus mounting: bonded round shank
- Replacement stylus: AT-VMN95C
- Approximate lifespan: 500 hours
Dimensions and weight
- Dimensions: 21.2 × 21.4 × 62.4 mm, height × width × depth
- Total weight: 15.5 g
- AT-VM95C cartridge mounted on AT-HS6BK headshell
- Die-cast aluminum headshell: 9 g
All VM95 styli fit the common cartridge body:
- AT-VMN95C: bonded conical
- AT-VMN95E: elliptical
- AT-VMN95EN: nude elliptical
- AT-VMN95ML: MicroLinear
- AT-VMN95SH: Shibata
- AT-VMN95SP: special/pro
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this kit compatible with my turntable?
The AT-VM95C/H is suitable for turntables equipped with a tonearm using a removable headshell with SME-standard bayonet connector. This includes the Technics SL-1200/1210, Audio-Technica AT-LP120/140, Pioneer PLX, and many DJ or hi-fi models. Turntables with an integrated arm and no detachable headshell require purchasing the cartridge alone (AT-VM95C) and direct mounting.
What tracking force should I set?
Audio-Technica recommends a tracking force of 2.0 grams, with an acceptable range from 1.8 to 2.2 grams. A setting slightly above 2.0 g can improve tracking on heavily modulated records, while a lighter setting marginally extends the life of both the diamond and the vinyl.
Can this cartridge be used for 78 rpm records?
No, the 0.6 mil conical stylus is designed for 33 and 45 rpm microgroove records. Playing 78 rpm records requires a 3 mil stylus, available separately under the reference AT-VMN95SP. You only need to install it on the same cartridge body.
What load capacitance should the preamp provide?
The recommended load capacitance is between 100 and 200 pF, taking into account both the tonearm cable and the phono input. Excessive capacitance can cause a peak in the high frequencies and slight sibilance, while too little capacitance will roll off the top end.
How do I know when to replace the stylus?
Signs of wear include increased distortion in heavily modulated passages, loss of detail in the treble, a veiled or muffled sound, and groove skipping on records in good condition. Examination under a USB microscope allows you to visually confirm the diamond’s condition. Beyond 500 hours, preventive replacement is recommended even if no audible symptoms are present.
Is the AT-VMN95C stylus identical to the old AT95E stylus?
No, although both are conical styli, they are not interchangeable. The VM95 series uses a new cartridge body that is mechanically incompatible with the styluses from the AT95 generation. Performance is nonetheless comparable, and slightly improved on the VM95 thanks to its lower-resonance housing.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 4961310146535
