P-mount (T4P) Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge • 0.3 x 0.7 mil bonded elliptical diamond stylus • Aluminum pipe cantilever • Para-toroidal coil generator construction • Direct plug-in linear tracking compatibility • Universal 1/2"-mount adapter included
The Audio-Technica AT85EP Cartridge is engineered specifically to deliver audiophile-grade high-fidelity playback for P-mount (T4P) turntables, including linear tracking and radial arms from Technics, Pioneer, Sony, and others. Built with Audio-Technica’s dual moving magnet structure and para-toroidal coil design, it provides outstanding stereo channel separation, broad frequency linearity, and minimal electrical loss. Outfitted with a 0.3 x 0.7 mil bonded elliptical diamond stylus mounted to a low-mass aluminum pipe cantilever, the AT85EP easily tracks complex musical modulations with exceptional clarity. The cartridge plugs directly into standard P-mount tonearms without requiring complex alignment, and includes a 1/2"-mount adapter bracket for universal standard headshell versatility.
Key Features & Innovations
Direct P-mount (T4P) architecture — plugs directly into standard 4-pin T4P tonearm sockets without fiddling with headshell lead wires, geometry alignment protractors, or balance adjustments.
0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical diamond stylus — dual-radii profile traces fine high-frequency groove excursions with precision, yielding lower distortion and heightened high-end fidelity compared to spherical tips.
Dual Moving Magnet (V-Twin) generator — mirrors the geometry of standard stereo vinyl cutter heads with independent magnets dedicated to left and right channels for maximum channel separation.
Para-toroidal coil construction — continuous windings around laminated cores suppress magnetic flux leakage to preserve dynamic micro-detail and ensure clean, uncompressed audio reproduction.
Agile aluminum pipe cantilever — combines structural stiffness with low moving mass, tracking fast transients smoothly across a wide 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz frequency range.
Included 1/2"-mount universal adapter bracket — converts the cartridge into a standard 1/2"-mount configuration, enabling installation on traditional turntables and headshells with ease.
FAQ — Audio-Technica AT85EP Cartridge
What is a P-mount (T4P) turntable cartridge?
The P-mount (T4P) standard is an plug-and-play format introduced to eliminate manual cartridge setup. A T4P cartridge features four integrated connection pins that slide directly into the tonearm socket and secure with a single horizontal cross-screw. Effective mass, cartridge weight (6.0 g), tracking force (1.25 g to 1.5 g), and overhang are pre-standardized, eliminating the need for gauge alignment or counterweight rebalancing.
Can I install the AT85EP on a regular 1/2"-mount headshell?
Yes. The AT85EP includes a 1/2"-mount adapter bracket, nuts, and mounting hardware. When mounted in the adapter, it functions just like a standard 1/2"-mount cartridge with four rear color-coded terminal pins for installation on conventional straight or S-shaped tonearms.
Can the stylus be replaced when it becomes worn?
Yes. The cartridge utilizes the user-replaceable Audio-Technica ATN85EP elliptical stylus assembly, which slides smoothly forward off the cartridge body for quick, tool-free replacement.
What tracking force should I use?
For standard P-mount tonearms, the tracking force is factory preset to 1.25 grams (the standardized T4P specification). If installed on a traditional 1/2"-mount tonearm using the adapter, set the vertical tracking force between 1.0 and 1.5 grams, with 1.25 grams being optimal.
Why Buy From Us
Authorized Audio-Technica dealer offering 100% genuine products with full manufacturer warranty coverage
Expert technical assistance on P-mount cartridge compatibility, linear tracking turntables, and 1/2"-mount conversions
Dedicated concierge customer service for analog audio setup and system matching
Fast, secure insured shipping with protective packaging on every order
