Phono cartridge designed to deliver clear, reliable playback for turntables, Audio-Technica VM95C Cartridge. Vinyl collectors get straightforward fitting and satisfying sound from the first spin. Does it make sense as an upgrade from a basic fitted cartridge?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Sound Signature: Clear, detailed midrange with rich, accurate bass as noted by users
- • Best for: Entry-level enthusiasts and hobbyists seeking an affordable, upgradeable cartridge
- • Not ideal for: High-end audiophiles wanting top-tier stylus performance without future upgrades
Aluminium cantilever and a conical bonded stylus generate the electrical signal, while a 4.0mV output gives a healthy phono-level signal. The VM95-series-compatible body allows later swaps to finer stylus options.
More musical detail with conical bonded stylus
Conical bonded stylus tracks groove modulation and, together with an aluminium cantilever, converts motion into an electrical signal. The specified 4.0mV output voltage produces a robust signal for most phono inputs.
Clearer midrange and solid bass result, making records sound lively and full-bodied without demanding a specialised phono stage.
Easy installation thanks to threaded inserts and VM95-compatible body
Threaded inserts aid secure fitting to standard headshells, and the cartridge body matches all VM95 series stylus assemblies. The form factor mirrors legacy fitments for straightforward replacement of older cartridges.
Quick mounting and alignment get decks spinning sooner, and replacement of an existing AT91-series cartridge is simple for routine upgrades.
Long-term upgrade path with VM95 series styli
Compatibility with Elliptical, Elliptical Nude, Microlinear and Shibata styli means the same cartridge body accepts progressively finer stylus shapes. Switching the stylus assembly allows tonal and resolution improvements without swapping the cartridge body.
Start with a forgiving conical tip and later move to higher-resolution styli as tastes or kit improve, extending the cartridge's useful life.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Audio-Technica VM95C Cartridge
- Aluminium cantilever - Improved tracking stability for clearer, more consistent midrange detail
- 4.0mV output voltage - Strong signal level for most phono inputs without extra gain
- VM95-series body compatibility - Swap to higher-performance styli without replacing the cartridge body
- Conical bonded stylus - Forgiving contact ideal for everyday playback and varied record conditions
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Brand: Audio-Technica
- Model: VM95C
- Category: Moving Magnet phono cartridge
- Stylus shape: Conical bonded stylus
- Cantilever: Aluminium cantilever
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the cartridge compatible with other VM95 styli?
A: Yes, the cartridge body is compatible with Elliptical, Elliptical Nude, Microlinear and Shibata VM95 series styli, allowing straightforward upgrades.
Q: Can it replace older AT91-series cartridges?
A: Yes, it is listed as a replacement for AT91, AT91R and CN5625AL models and fits the same mounting form factor.
Q: How easy is the cartridge to install?
A: Users report easy fitting thanks to threaded inserts for installation and the VM95-compatible body that matches common headshell mounts.
🏆 Our Verdict
Perfect for entry-level collectors and hobbyists who want an affordable, easy-to-fit cartridge with upgrade potential. The upgradeable VM95-series body, aluminium cantilever and 4.0mV output form the key selling point, allowing improvements by swapping stylus assemblies over time. Affordable with a clear path to better sound, it represents good long-term value for growing vinyl setups.
