Description
A new chapter in the history of VM cartridges.
A dedicated 78 RPM SP record model featuring a 3.0 mil bonded conical stylus.
Audio-Technica's flagship lineup of its originally developed VM cartridges is reborn as the AT-VM700x/600x/500x series (AT-VMx series). This marks the first renewal in nine years, since 2016, and features a wide-ranging lineup from high-grade models equipped with a line contact stylus to standard models with elliptical or conical styli. In addition to achieving the highest sound quality in VM cartridge history, usability has also been improved.
All models newly adopt PCUHD (Pure Copper Ultra High Drawability) for the coil conductors, delivering powerful low-frequency expression and a vast soundstage. By reducing the number of coil turns, we have enhanced the responsive, light-footed sound quality and musical expressiveness. The monaural cartridges also adopt a mono wiring scheme based on a stereo cartridge design, which maintains stable reproduction capabilities while enabling bright, immersive playback. The AT-VM670xSP is a dedicated model featuring a 3.0 mil bonded conical stylus designed for SP records.
Furthermore, by changing the cartridge body to a threaded design, installation on integrated tonearms has become easier. We have also added a V-shaped cut to the protector to serve as a guide for the stylus position, improving the visibility of the stylus tip when lowering it onto a record.
Experience a new level of listening with the AT-VMx series. The door to a world of rich sound is now open.
Audio-Technica began its journey in 1962 with the launch of the AT-1, an MM-type stereo cartridge. The analog cartridge, the cornerstone of our foundation, has continuously evolved through the ages, refined by our technical developers who seek out superior basic performance and excellent sound. In 1967, our original technological developments led to the birth of the AT-35X, the origin of our VM cartridges. Its innovative mechanism, inspired by the operating principle of the 45/45 cutting method, secured numerous international patents. Later, in 1979, we released the AT120E/G, the first model in the AT100 series, which became the starting point for our current lineup. Subsequently, models like the AT150MLX in Japan and the AT440ML overseas gained popularity and became long-selling items. The VM cartridge has become a signature product for our company, beloved in countries around the world. In 2016, the VM cartridges were revamped as the global VM700/600/500 series with internationally standardized specifications. This marks the first renewal in nine years since then.
The Highest Sound Quality in VM Cartridge History*
Balancing delicate expression with an immersive sound quality
For this renewal, we developed the series with the concept of balancing delicate reproductive capability with an immersive sound quality. By thoroughly reviewing the materials and manufacturing processes, audio-technica have pursued not only pure sound reproduction but also a high level of expressiveness for rendering music.
*Compared to audio-technica products as of May 2025.
- Newly adopts PCUHD for coil conductors
This is the first time PCUHD, also used in our Hi-Fi audio cables, has been adopted for a VM cartridge. It achieves powerful low-frequency expression and a vast soundstage. Furthermore, by reducing the number of coil turns, we have created a responsive and light-footed sound quality.
PCUHD: Pure Copper Ultra High Drawability
PCUHD® is a registered trademark of Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
- Adopts a cartridge body with mono wiring
By connecting the left and right channels of the stereo cartridge body, this design cancels the vertical signal component of the record groove, which is unnecessary for monaural reproduction. This results in clearer sound-image localization and reduced surface noise during mono playback.
- A diverse stylus lineup to meet desired sound quality
Features a bonded conical stylus with a 3.0 mil tip radius. It fits perfectly into the wider grooves of SP records, ensuring stable sound reproduction.
- The body features a paratoroidal coil structure
The AT-VMx series is distinguished by its proprietary paratoroidal coil power-generating system. This structure is a unified, seamless core that keeps the magnetic flux contained within the specially wound coils. As a result, generating efficiency is enhanced, achieving excellent linearity.
Easier Operation, Improved Usability
Implements threaded cartridge mounting holes
Compatible with the integrated tonearms widely adopted in the global Hi-Fi audio market. The change to a threaded design makes installing the cartridge on an integrated tonearm easier.
- Improved visibility of the stylus tip during operation
We received feedback that the stylus tip on previous VM cartridges was difficult to see when lowering it onto a record. While ensuring compatibility with older models (replacement styli and bodies), the new models feature a V-shaped cut in the protector as a guide for the stylus position, thereby improving the visibility of the stylus tip.
- Environmentally-conscious packaging
By significantly reducing the amount of plastic used, we have transitioned to more environmentally friendly packaging.
Specifications
| Type | VM Type |
| Frequency Response | 20～20,000Hz |
| Output Voltage | 4.7mV(1kHz, 5cm/sec.) |
| Channel Separation | 20dB(1kHz) |
| Tracking Force | 4.5～5.5g (5.0g standard) |
| Coil Impedance | 1.6kΩ(1kHz) |
| DC Resistance | 375Ω |
| Recommended Load Resistance | 47kΩ |
| Recommended Load Capacitance | 150〜250pF |
| Coil Inductance | 240mH(1kHz) |
| Static Compliance | 23×10-6cm/dyne |
| Stylus | Bonded Round Shank |
| Stylus Tip Radius | 3.0mil |
| Cantilever | Aluminum Pipe |
| Vertical Tracking Angle | 20° |
| Dimensions | H17.5×W18.3×D28.0mm |
| Cartridge Mounting Screw Hole | M2.6×2 |
| Weight | 7.2g |
