Audio-Technica AT-VMN95E

The Audio-Technica AT-VMN95E is a replacement stylus from the VM95 series and features an aluminum cantilever and a bonded elliptical diamond stylus with a round shank. This stylus is designed to make it easy to replace worn-out styluses while also offering the option to upgrade an existing VM95 cartridge.

The elliptical diamond stylus follows the variations in the record groove more accurately than a conical stylus. This improves the frequency response and phase reproduction, while noticeably reducing distortion. The result is a more detailed and balanced sound reproduction.

Like all diamond styluses, an elliptical stylus is also subject to wear and tear. Its average lifespan is approximately 300 hours of playback. By comparison, a conical stylus lasts about 500 hours, a MicroLine stylus about 1,000 hours, and a Shibata stylus about 800 hours.

Thanks to the VM95 series’ replaceable design, there’s no need to replace the entire cartridge when it wears out. By simply installing a new replacement stylus, the cartridge can be used virtually indefinitely. In addition, the series offers the option to switch to a different stylus type, allowing you to further refine the sound characteristics or performance.

All cartridges in the VM95 series use the same electromagnetic system, making all replacement needles within the series fully interchangeable. The compatible models are:

• AT-VMN95C
• AT-VMN95E
• AT-VMN95EN
• AT-VMN95ML
• AT-VMN95SH
• AT-VMN95SP

With its bonded elliptical diamond stylus, the AT-VMN95E is an excellent choice for music lovers seeking precise tracking, improved frequency response, and lower distortion compared to a standard conical stylus.