Purpose-Built VM Cartridge for 78 RPM Record Playback and Archiving
The Audio-Technica AT-VM95SP Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge is designed specifically for playing 78 RPM mono records while retaining a stereo dual-magnet generator architecture. Its large 3.0 mil bonded conical stylus is optimized for the wider grooves found on shellac and other 78 RPM discs, helping provide proper groove contact, reduced surface noise and dependable playback of historic recordings.
Although intended for mono 78 RPM records, the AT-VM95SP remains a stereo cartridge, allowing the left and right groove channels to be accessed independently. This can be especially useful for archival applications, where selecting the cleaner channel may help reduce noise or distortion from damaged recordings. The cartridge also shares the modular VM95 body used throughout the series, allowing compatible Audio-Technica VM95 replacement styli to be installed without replacing the cartridge body.
Highlights & Benefits
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Designed for 78 RPM Records — The specialized stylus profile is intended for the wider groove geometry of 78 RPM mono recordings.
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3.0 mil Bonded Conical Stylus — The large-radius conical stylus provides appropriate groove contact for a wide range of vintage 78 RPM records.
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Stereo Dual-Magnet Generator — Despite its mono-record application, the cartridge outputs separate left and right channels, providing additional flexibility for playback and archival work.
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Interchangeable VM95 Stylus Platform — The cartridge body accepts compatible AT-VMN95 replacement styli, making stylus replacement and alternate playback configurations straightforward.
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Threaded Cartridge Body — Integrated threaded inserts simplify installation by allowing the cartridge to be secured with two screws without requiring separate mounting nuts.
Technology & Design
3.0 mil Conical Stylus — The AT-VM95SP uses a bonded round-shank stylus with a 3.0 mil tip radius, a geometry specifically suited to the wider grooves typically found on 78 RPM records from a variety of eras.
VM Dual-Magnet Architecture — Audio-Technica's dual moving magnet design uses separate magnetic elements corresponding to the two sides of the record groove, providing independent left and right electrical output.
Aluminum Pipe Cantilever — A lightweight aluminum cantilever transfers groove movement to the generator while providing the rigidity and durability needed for the cartridge's relatively high tracking-force requirement.
Low-Resonance Polymer Housing — The durable cartridge body helps control unwanted vibration while threaded mounting inserts simplify installation on compatible half-inch-mount headshells and tonearms.
FAQ — Audio-Technica AT-VM95SP
Is the AT-VM95SP designed specifically for 78 RPM records?
Yes. The AT-VM95SP uses a 3.0 mil conical stylus intended for the wider grooves found on 78 RPM records. It should not be treated as a conventional microgroove LP stylus.
What tracking force should I use with the AT-VM95SP?
Audio-Technica specifies a vertical tracking-force range of 4.5 to 5.5 grams, with 5.0 grams as the standard recommended setting.
Is the AT-VM95SP a mono cartridge?
The cartridge is designed for mono 78 RPM records, but electrically it is a stereo dual-magnet cartridge. This provides separate left and right outputs, which can be useful when selecting the quieter side of a worn groove during archival playback.
Can I install another VM95 stylus on the cartridge body?
Yes. The AT-VM95SP uses the same cartridge body platform as the other VM95 Series models and accepts compatible AT-VMN95 replacement styli. Always reset tracking force and other tonearm adjustments for the stylus being used.
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