Pre-assembled plug-and-play phono package • VM520EB Dual Moving Magnet cartridge pre-mounted on AT-HS10BK headshell • 0.3 x 0.7 mil bonded elliptical diamond stylus • Para-toroidal generator coils • Aluminum pipe cantilever • Factory aligned for standard 4-pin 1/2"-mount tonearms
The Audio-Technica VM520EB/H Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit delivers high-performance elliptical tracking in a convenient, factory-calibrated plug-and-play package. Featuring the acclaimed VM520EB Dual Moving Magnet cartridge precision-aligned onto an ultra-lightweight AT-HS10BK headshell, this combo attaches directly to any turntable equipped with a standard 4-pin bayonet tonearm. Its 0.3 x 0.7 mil bonded elliptical stylus and aluminum cantilever trace groove walls with high fidelity, while para-toroidal generator coils and an internal mu-metal shield ensure broad channel separation and punchy 4.5 mV output without the hassle of mounting hardware.
Key Features & Innovations
Pre-assembled & factory aligned — combines the VM520EB cartridge and lightweight AT-HS10BK headshell into a ready-to-mount unit, eliminating manual overhang adjustments and lead-wire soldering.
0.3 x 0.7 mil bonded elliptical diamond stylus — bi-radial diamond profile tracks higher frequencies with lower distortion and better phase coherence than spherical or conical designs.
Para-toroidal generator coils — laminated core architecture maximizes electromagnetic transfer, maintaining a wide, linear frequency response and high 4.5 mV signal output.
Dual Moving Magnet (VM) design — independent magnets arranged in a V-shape duplicate the left and right groove cutting geometry for enhanced stereo channel separation and minimal crosstalk.
Internal mu-metal center shield — physically separates left and right channel coils to prevent electrical interference and preserve stereo imaging integrity.
Modular 500/700 series stylus upgrade path — shared cartridge body allows straightforward drop-in stylus upgrades to nude elliptical, MicroLine, Shibata, or Special Line Contact profiles without unmounting the headshell.
The Audio-Technica VM520EB/H is designed for any S-shaped, J-shaped, or straight tonearm equipped with a standard 1/2"-mount universal 4-pin bayonet connector (H-4 bayonet mount), including popular models from Audio-Technica, Technics, Pioneer, and Denon.
What is the total weight of this cartridge and headshell package?
The entire assembly weighs approximately 16.4 grams (cartridge 6.4 g + headshell 10.0 g). Check your tonearm's counterweight capacity to ensure it accommodates assemblies within this weight class.
What is the recommended vertical tracking force (VTF)?
The recommended vertical tracking force is 2.0 grams, with an acceptable operational range of 1.8 to 2.2 grams.
Can I upgrade the stylus on this cartridge without swapping the headshell?
Yes. The VM520EB body is fully compatible with all 500 and 700 series replacement styli. You can upgrade to a nude elliptical (VMN30EN), MicroLine (VMN40ML), or Shibata (VMN50SH) stylus simply by pulling off the blue assembly and clicking on the new one.
Why Buy From Us
Authorized Audio-Technica dealer offering 100% genuine factory-calibrated kits with full warranty
Expert technical assistance on tonearm mass matching, VTA, and tracking force balancing
Dedicated concierge customer service for setup support and analog upgrades
Fast, secure insured freight shipping with protective white-glove packaging on every order
