Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML VM95 series Microlinear stereo cartridge Red

Reviews

bill smith

I surmise this may be down to the fact that both the VM95ML and Rega Elys 2 have nude styli and the VM95e and VM95c are bonded. better resolution of detail, a little less body but less bloat to the bass, and better tracking.

paolo

I’ve replaced the Monitor Audio Bronze 2 speakers in my second system with ATC SCM7s which are a considerable improvement, sounding both more detailed and more natural, but these have not embarrassed either of the cartridges in use in this system (although they have embarrassed some of the CDs in my collection), in fact the 95EN sounds more noticeably better than the 95E through them than it sounded through the (more forgiving) Bronze 2s. It offers audible improvements over the Elys 2 in all respects (though personally I don’t think the Elys 2 is a bad cartridge). And, as the 95ML lights-up my Elex/B&W system, so too does the 95EN light-up my Cyrus/MA system. I’ve read a bit about there being synergy between Rega tone arms and cartridges but, pace Rega’s propaganda, this is synergy.

E. I. Eggio

P. However, I did notice that the 95E had some difficulty consistently tracking demanding records which became an increasing niggle for me. If you have Planar 1 just like me, we share the same curiosity and frustration over what improvement we can make. I suggest some may find it easier to use Phillips or hex screws rather than the ones supplied.

Alecsander Alves

25 November 2020. Once I had selected the right screws it was a doddle to fit. The VM95ML clearly shares the house sound of the series but it is also clearly a step up in all respects except value for money in terms of which, however, it promises to be comparable. 5mv vs 4mv) which is actually noticeable and needs to be taken into account when comparing the sound.

Jorge

Ultimately, I was intending to use it as a possible replacement for the Elys 2 on my P3. Also, images of both systems to prove that I’m not making all this stuff up! I’m now on my third 95E stylus and, although I initially thought that managed better for wear than the 250 hours suggested by Audio Technica, I suspect my initial estimate of use must have been an overly generous estimate as the second 95E had played no more than 250 albums before I felt it needed replacing (however, maybe I have also become more adept at noticing the slightest effects of the initial signs of stylus wear and tear on tracking, probably because I’ve got used to the superior tracking abilities of the ML and EN versions of the 95). I use a Rega Fono Mini in the Cyrus system, in the other system the Elex R has its own phono stage, but this is supposed to be the same as the Fono Mini and so ought to make no appreciable difference.

marekw

However, the 95ML doesn't sound as good in this system as it does in the other, and that again more than justifies the 95ENs price: it's no longer questionable value if the relatively-better-value-but-more-expensive-alternative doesn't actually sound better in the set-up in question. I think I’ve said quite enough.