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Audio Technica cartridges (MM)
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Lucabeer View Drop Down
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    Posted: 27 Jan 2014 at 3:25pm
Hi all!

I am currently using an AT91 on my oldish and cheap Pioneer PL-335 turntable. Sounds fine, but I guess it could do better in terms of highs distortion.

I have listened to the AT95, which sounds fine (not tried on my turntable, though).

Without going too crazily expensive (wouldn't make sense on a basic turntable), could you suggest me the best upgrade? I like Audio Technica's sound signature (more out of habit I would say) and would like to stay with the same brand.

The options are:

AT95E/BL
AT100E
AT5V
AT120E

in order of cost. Well, actually the AT120E is already a bit out of budget...

Bear in mind that, as I said, my turntable is not particularly sophisticated (although it works fine), and it has standard tonearm (quite lightweight and plasticy).

I listen to old jazz records (many from '50s and '60s, some quite worn due to having been played on turntables with not perfect settings) and rock/electronica. Occasionally, some classical/symphonic.

Can someone kind and experienced enough explain to me the pros and cons of the cartridges I have listed above?

Thanks!
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Lucabeer View Drop Down
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Points: 719 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Lucabeer Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 27 Jan 2014 at 3:28pm
Of course sound quality, traking and ease of use (=not a "fussy" cartridge, but a tolerant one) are all important.

I prefer a slightly warmer sound, which doesn't mean that I don't like highs... only that I don't like brightness.
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CageyH View Drop Down
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Points: 1751 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote CageyH Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 27 Jan 2014 at 7:25pm
I loved my AT95E.
It's now been replaced by an AT150MLX, but the AT95E served me well.
As far as bang for buck goes, it is hard to beat.
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Lucabeer View Drop Down
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Points: 719 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Lucabeer Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Jan 2014 at 9:05am
I have been looking at specs, and now I am in doubt between the AT95E and the AT100E.

I see that the AT100E has a lower recommended tracking force (optimal: 1.4 grams) vs the AT95E (around 2 grams). Would it be a good choice for my oldish and lightweight turntable?
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I'd say the higher VTF of the 95E was going to be slightly more suitable. As VTF decreases you need a better performing tonearm, in my experience.

Going with a 95E does leave you with an upgrade path if you consider the stylii produced by (or for) US retailer LPGear. They do a range of AT95 models with this one being at the top:


I have the p-mount version of this Shibata shod cartridge and it is very good; it'll certainly elevate the 95 way above the basic model - which is very good in itself for the price. Obviously you'd keep your body and just upgrade the stylus (if you went down this route).
Bob

Majestic DAC/pre-amp
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Lucabeer View Drop Down
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Points: 719 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Lucabeer Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Jan 2014 at 1:14pm
Good points, thank you!
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Graham Slee View Drop Down
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Points: 16314 		Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Graham Slee Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Jan 2014 at 2:46pm
AT95E: one of my all-time favourites!

Graham
That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps
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