Pre-Mounted 78 RPM Cartridge and Headshell for Vintage Record Playback
The Audio-Technica AT-VM95SP/H Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit combines the AT-VM95SP dual moving magnet cartridge with Audio-Technica's black AT-HS6BK headshell in a convenient pre-mounted assembly designed for 78 RPM record playback. Its 3.0 mil bonded conical stylus is optimized for the wider groove geometry found on shellac and other 78 RPM discs, helping provide proper groove contact and dependable playback of historic recordings.
Although intended for mono 78 RPM records, the AT-VM95SP uses a stereo dual-magnet generator that preserves separate left and right electrical outputs. This can be useful for archival playback, where one groove wall may be cleaner than the other. The modular VM95 cartridge body also accepts compatible AT-VMN95 replacement styli, allowing the same cartridge body to be used for other supported record formats when the appropriate stylus and tonearm settings are selected.
Highlights & Benefits
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Designed for 78 RPM Records — The 3.0 mil conical stylus is sized for the wider grooves typically found on vintage 78 RPM records.
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Pre-Mounted AT-HS6BK Headshell — The cartridge arrives installed on Audio-Technica's black universal headshell for simpler installation on compatible removable-headshell tonearms.
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Stereo Dual-Magnet Generator — Separate left and right outputs provide flexibility when playing or archiving mono 78 RPM recordings.
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Interchangeable VM95 Stylus Platform — Compatible AT-VMN95 stylus assemblies can be fitted to the cartridge body for replacement or alternate playback applications.
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Factory-Assembled Convenience — The cartridge-and-headshell combination reduces the amount of mounting work required compared with installing a bare cartridge.
Technology & Design
3.0 mil Bonded Conical Stylus — The large-radius diamond tip is specifically suited to wide-groove 78 RPM records and should not be treated as a conventional microgroove LP stylus.
VM Dual-Magnet Architecture — Audio-Technica's generator uses separate magnets corresponding to the two sides of the groove, creating independent left and right channel outputs.
Aluminum-Pipe Cantilever — Lightweight aluminum transfers stylus movement to the cartridge generator while providing the durability required for the AT-VM95SP's higher tracking-force range.
AT-HS6BK Universal Headshell — The included headshell supports standard half-inch cartridge mounting and attaches to compatible removable-headshell tonearms through a universal bayonet-style interface.
FAQ — Audio-Technica AT-VM95SP/H
Is the AT-VM95SP/H designed specifically for 78 RPM records?
Yes. The included AT-VM95SP cartridge uses a 3.0 mil bonded conical stylus intended for wide-groove 78 RPM records. It is not the appropriate stylus for conventional modern LP and 45 RPM microgroove records.
What tracking force should I use with the AT-VM95SP/H?
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?
It is designed for mono 78 RPM records, but the cartridge itself uses a stereo dual-magnet generator with separate left and right outputs. This can be useful for archival work when one groove wall is less worn or noisy than the other.
Can I install another VM95 stylus on this cartridge body?
Yes. The AT-VM95SP uses Audio-Technica's modular VM95 cartridge body and accepts compatible AT-VMN95 replacement styli. Tracking force and other tonearm adjustments should always be reset to match the stylus being installed.
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