Budget Phono Cartridge Shootout 2018

In this video I give my impressions of several budget phono cartridges..
Audio-Technica AT-95e
Audio-Technica AT-95eX
Audio-Technica AT-VM95C/E
Audio-Technica AT-3600L
Goldring E1
Ortofon OM5e
Ortofon 2M Red

[@robertcrawford4009]

I enjoyed your video. It made me remember when I had a turntable and was buying phono cartridges. This was over 30 years ago. I bought them at Dyer Electronics store in Tyler, TX. I had a friend that worked there. Great memories. Thanks Joe.

[@stevegerst5229]

Thank you Joe. I share your passion for music and enjoyed your presentation on cartridges. Thirty years ago I bought a Yamaha YP-B2 and a Ortofon MC-10. I still get it out and enjoy it. I miss the days of weekly stops at the “record” store.

[@pip5528]

I actually went to a cartridge seminar at RMAF 2018 run by a guy at Ortofon. I know even more about moving magnet vs. moving coil than before, as well as different price ranges for those things. Quite informative and I was glad I did it. :)

[@EddieJazzFan]

Great to see an audio video. I used to watch your cassette deck videos way back in the past, too lol

[@HamtaroEL]

Me too, every now and then I still do for the past 8 or 9 years.

[@AndyBHome]

I really appreciate your definition of audiophile and the description of it's symptoms. Funny, and so in line with what I've seen and experienced.

[@AndyBHome]

@Kayson Niko It asks you for money so . . . it's actually an illegal hacking site. The about us page includes a picture that literally looks like a mug shot. The original post has no place in these comments and absolutely no relationship to this video or my comment. I reported it as spam.

[@tracyscott3261]

Thank you. A lot of really useful information. You did great research.

[@netoe]

I will definitely consider to buy it. thanks for this fine video Señor Collins

[@johnross1991]

I have both the AT-3600L and the AT-95e. The AT-95e is by far the better of the two from my listening experience. Nice video comparison and thoughts on these cartridges.

[@jorgemtrevino]

Curiously enough, I also have have the AT3600L (came fitted to my Pioneer 500) and the AT95E which I had on an older belt driven Technics that just wouldn't keep pace on my defective mains, then I also have the AT VM95E that came installed on my AT LP1200 turntable. Of the three the 3600 is the most forgiving, gliding over low encrusted grime of old records, the 95E is more brilliant but tends to pick every click, pop and imperfection there is, although is a super grime extractor for freshly washed discs. Then, the VM95E is somewhat more brilliant on the middle and high frequencies albeit a wee bit more booming on the bass. Last but not least, I also own a pair of nakeds, a VM95EN and a VMN30EN which clearly outperform the other two ellipticals with a noticeably tighter separation and groove reading.

[@DrFlippin]

Hi Joe; Nice, informative review of these lower end cartridges. Thank you! I've read on a number of 'audiophile' forums that the AT Cartridges (for each shape/type) are electrically identical, and that the styli fitted onto them is what makes them sound different (and cost different). For example, the standard AT91 cartridge is essentially the same as an AT3600L except for its styli. I've noticed on eBay and Amazon that an array of styli are available for this standard series - and they are differentiated by the color of the stylus mount (such as yellow, gray, white, green and red). All are conical (except the Green made by Pfanstiehl which employs an elliptical stylus), and these conical Styli vary by their size, and in the case of the AT3600L the cantilever material (Carbon). I've been casually fiddling around with these cartridges, interchanging the styli, and I can definitely hear a difference in the sound signature and imaging quality. Do you think that there is any credence to this claim (that the AT cartridges are essentially the same but with different styli)? And would fitting the AT95EX stylus to the AT95 body turn the AT95 into an EX (both in appearance and sound!)?

[@EzeeLinux]

There are some rally well made elliptical styli available for the AT3600 (211 body style) carts. I got a hand made .3 x .7 elliptical for mine and it sings better than pretty much all the other carts I own. I am biased, though. I have fallen in love with the AT3600L. Just gem of a cart. :)

[@manFromPeterborough]

The EX gives a slightly better sound, newer E styli are now 3x7 instead of 4x7

[@jonathanwong880]

I have compared the AT3600L, CN5625, and also the AT95E, AT95EX and then the Shure M97ex with Jico needle. I still come back to the AT3600L for easy listening. This cart has a carbon cantilever and is the same as the Rega Carbon. The turn table I use are restored CEC BD200, Pioneer PL12D, Audio Technica LP5 and the Dual (restored). Great little cartridge, cheap and sounds good.

[@petersammon8771]

Joe...as a fellow DJ and audio phono cartridge nut for over 50 years...I too could not believe how good these A-T 3600L carts sound especially in my SL-2500 Pro Direct Drive tables!!! I purchased two off Ebay three years ago for twelve bucks apiece. Wow!!! So what about the 3-gram TTF...If your arm is aligned properly and rake angle set correctly...not only will your records incl 45s sound good...they will not show any appreciable wear!!! GOD BLESS BRO and keep spinnin' the VINYL!!! THX 4 da vid...ITS DA CARBON FIBRE!!!

[@petersammon8771]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😂😂😂

[@czguy3045]

I have several 'better' cartridges but I think my favorite overall current cartridge is basically the 3600 with the LP Gear carbon fiber which is (elliptical rather than conical) stylus is probably my favorite single overall cartridge. Not the best detail but good detail. Not the best midrange but quite natural. Not the most air on top but it is bright rather than dark. Not the tightest bass, but nice and plump on the bottom. For the money, it is ridiculously good. I have a few stock 3600s and 5625s that I mostly use to check out used vinyl purchases. I've installed four others for people just getting into vinyl or back into vinyl. I do think the VM95C is pretty good as well and I bought a stash of those on Amazon that were listed as Used Like New, but all of them were unopened, just with a damaged corner to the packaging.

[@Danthehorse]

Yeah I use the Rega Carbon variant with that LP Gear elliptical, its a massive improvement over the standard conical stylus. I'm tempted to try the vivid version, its cleaner and takes the rough edges away. I do wish there was a let bright option though, it's a bit shrill on a couple of my records.

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

It’s always nice to get other people’s opinions even if they differ from the majority of other KZbin revenues. I personally am going to buy the AT VM95E but will add the Shibata stylus at a later date when funds will allow.

[@jonathanwong880]

The AT3600L and /or the CN5625AL carts are very nice sounding for relaxed and no stress listening. Although I have swap over to the AT95e and or AT95Ex quickly, I love the mid range and bass on the AT3600L/CN5625AL more. Note that the cart preamp is important, with no more than 100pF capacitance loading (or no loading as the cables already pose capacitance). The AT3600L sounds better than the vintage Ortofon ULM 45/ ULM55e at a much lower cost. Definitely a modern winner (economies of scale and improved technology).

[@jonathanwong880]

Nice comparison. Despite having several carts, I must admit the AT3600L sounds musical and nice than the AT95 or the Ortofon OM10 (on optimized arms). I found a great combination, is to use the AT3600L engine with a Bliss (Made in Japan) needle. Hard to beat this combination.

[@seechunchong9876]

Just to add, the AT3600L is also used in Denon DP29F which I had. I had also tried the LPGear equivalent and higher grade one (Blue colored one). I had also tried the Rega Carbon cartridge and all of them works fine with the LPGear Blue one sounded better for my ears..Thanks for sharing...

[@jackelofnar]

Great video. Still use a OM red but planning to upgrade to a blue

[@patrickthunnus]

very underrated for sure, LPGear sells a modified version with a carbon fiber cantilever with an elliptical stylus for around $36; surprisingly open, sweet and dynamic. good AND cheap.

[@Madness832]

My current setup is a Sony PS-X555ES running into an STR-GX47ES receiver. And it's running an AT95E w/ the dark blue LP Gear stylus. Totally love the sound of it! Also, I was given an AT95EX, but I need to get around to mounting it!

[@EzeeLinux]

I'm considering getting one of LP Gear's AT95E upgrades... Kinda mad they've discontinued the AT95E... :)

[@davidirwin347]

Kinda funny I came across this. I've been resurrecting/restoring my old 80's audio gear. I have a Radio Shack turntable in which I put a very rare/high-end cartridge in that I loved. The stylus is missing. I don't know if one of my children played with it when they were young or it got lost during moving. USED replacements are in the $400-$500 range, no thanks. I found the cartridge that came with the turntable, an el-cheapo Radio Shack probably made by AT. Having nothing else, and no money, I decided to try it. I was unbelievably surprised at how good it sounds! I've been looking at the Ortofon Red and Blue, as well as the AT95EX, and a Grado. I had pretty much decided on the Blue when I have the cash. This is looking only at Amazon reviews. I have not heard any of these. After listening to the original cartridge for a bit I've been on the fence about upgrading at all. Watching another video last night comparing Stanton against AT and re-reading the reviews, I pulled everything out of my wish list except the AT95EX. Now I saw this video. Thank you Joe! You just saved me $80. I'm keeping the one I have. But now the next step... As surprisingly good as it sounds, I just eyeballed the mount to my existing headshell. I guess now I need to download/print a protractor/setup page and see how not even close I got it. It really does sound perfect though. No distortion, plenty of bass but not overpowering, crisp clean highs. I think I'm really close.

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

It's good to read that your are doing well with that cartridge. Myself, for my harman kardon T25 turntable, I have an AT70 (don't know exact model number); and recently bought, replaced the cartridge's stylus - AT70 model series. Although I carefully cleaned the old, original stylus, with the new stylus there is cleaner sound, clearer music.

[@stevescott200]

I got 3 cartridges, one pioneer, one AT?, bought the 3600L from china $12, free shipping, to my ear it sounds the best. `nice video, thanks

[@pip5528]

I know the technical advantages of direct drive, but my personal preference is belt drive. Besides, my U-Turn Orbit Custom has an acrylic platter, and in my experience, the speed is pretty consistent, even when left alone for a long time, which is surprising but also great, so yay!

[@jeremy_h]

Wonderful video! I caught the vinyl bug at an Urban Outfitters and was dumb enough to buy one of the suitcase players for entirely too much money. Seeing the error of my ways, I am currently winning an auction for an ATLP-60 clone, but it has an adjustable weighted tone arm and swappable standard headshell. The cart will have to be replaced and you released the perfect guide at the perfect time for me! I hope you keep producing audio videos - you seem very informed and experienced without all of the audiophile snobbery aimed at those of us on a limited budget.

[@EzeeLinux]

Thanks. I detest audiophile snobs... :)

[@pip5528]

@@EzeeLinux I'm a genuine audiophile, just not the snobbish kind.

[@parisstromatias637]

Come on guys you are serious about the at 60 turntable this is a very bad turntable you are damaging your records throw it away in the bin

[@manFromPeterborough]

@@parisstromatias637 VWestlife says it loves to skip on Daft Punk music

[@jefferyb304]

I decided to try a direct drive turntable because of a string of belt drives that constantly would gain or loose speed. The last example was a Mitsubishi linear tracking turntable that I at least thought was low hour. No matter what kind of servicing trick, I could never get the tonearm to sit down or pick up properly. The last straw happened when the player decided to speed up violently and throw its belt. I need to check if I was making an MP3 when that happened LOL. It's kind of funny to me that I picked out a Crosley C200 Direct Drive Turntable around a month ago for a birthday and Christmas present. It seems to include the cartridge you mentioned. The turntable highly resembles the Audio Technica AT-LP 120 minus stuff like USB connection, etc. I guess kind of a Crown Victoia viruses Grand Marquis kind of comparison. It could be an attempt to pull the Crosley brand out of the slump of cheap record players. Lastly. I was given a computer that is like 17 years old that was upgraded from Windows 2000, I think, to Windows XP Professional. Since it really can't do much nowadays. I found that it makes great MP3's. I do know that the computer is so old it shipped with USB 1.1. I installed 2.0's in an expansion slot. The computers main jobs are recording and playing music. Plus, I was so familiar with XP that I was glad to get something that runs XP. I need to try Linux sometime :)

[@walterboonstra2022]

Hi Joe, what do you recommend for a p- mount cartridge for my kenwood KD-66F turntable

[@dietchapstick7890]

The "hashy sound" on the 2M Red is probably due to two things 1) the low quality bonded elliptical stylus 2) the high output of the cartridge. Measurements of the 2M series have shown that the output is sometimes much higher than spec'd. The Bronze and Black have been measured at over 8MV of output! Most phono preamps aren't made to accommodate that. You either need a lower gain setting (e.g. 30-35db) or a higher overload margin. The Goldring 1000 and 2000 series cartridges have the same issue with the high output. Same thing with some of the Shure DJ carts that were recently discontinued.

[@EzeeLinux]

I am no running it with the Blue stylus and it sounds very good, indeed. My HH Scott preamp seems to work with it fine. :)

[@johnholmes912]

The 2M carts can be accommodated by virtually every phono/pre on the market

[@silvanodelrio3361]

Good video. Thank you.

[@doyrayburn2668]

Exact same story, only I just stored my albums. I never got rid of them. Now Im 60 and making a come back. I had already given my Pioneer tt to my oldest son. I just picked up a Micro Seiki on a great trade and am back in the game!

[@jwkmpli]

I still have my denon direct drive turntable from 1979 and a ortofon MC10

[@Khyree_Holmes]

Always good to see a Audio/Video (get it) lol.

[@abzhuofficial]

Ba-dum tsss

[@Tunz909]

Well Joe, I pulled the trigger on that AT-3600L, thanks for your videos packed with info for us novices!! Now going to check out speakers!!:-) You have any videos on speakers? thanks again in advance Bruce

[@goodknight37]

Are you sure that photo is from 88’ and not 58’?

[@HitsTownUSA]

How are you liking your 2M Blue? It’s great that you can do a stylus swap with the Red cartridge. I generally use my 2M Blue with my styrene 45’s. 1.8g is light enough to not damage the styrene 45’s given the fact it’s a nude elliptical. My VM530EN has a bit heavier VTF at 2.0g so I’m more hesitant on spinning styrene 45’s with it before I knew better.

[@EzeeLinux]

I'm liking it... It's a cut above what I have been playing around with and it certainly has some 'ooomph!' I was really leaning toward the Nagaoka but I decided it would be fun to see what the difference was between the Red and the Blue. There's a HUGE difference. I wouldn't worry too much about tracking your styrene at 2.0 with the AT. That's only 2/10s of a gram heavier than the Blue and both carts have the same shape of stylus. Both track so well that it's a toss up between which one is better for the job. Love to see you posting again. Happy New Year! :)

[@TemujinScott80]

For tracking force I go by the scale weight.

[@mrman7453]

Thank you 🏌🏿‍♂️. I jaut got back into vinyl and purchased a ortofon 2m red . You hit the sound right on the head its sound distorted and hiss. Basically I hate it. I am looking for an upgrade but I am hesitant to go the Ortofon Blue.

[@Pootycat8359]

In the early 1980s, one of the audio mags dedicated to "high-end" audio (either "Stereophile" or "Audio Amateur," I forget which), recommended the "Sonus Green" as a top cartridge. It had a conical stylus.

[@mikebarrington8828]

I’ve put a replaced my OM5E with a OM10 stylus and run for 3 years frequencies across the range are slightly tighter. Even coming upto the end of its life still sounds great. I’m planning on going over to AT530EN however my OM10 will be moved to a different deck Edit forgot to say tracking range 1.25 - 1.75 I’ve played over the years 1.7g is too heavy it kills the top end too much and mids don’t sound right. 1.5g I found bottom end loose and untidy especially when playing at low volumes or headphones. 1.62g seem the optimal for around performance anti skate on my linn basik LVX is 1.8g

[@music9556]

audio technica has a good design in all their carts

[@markmccummins8049]

The AT 3600 has good reviews. Bonus: Both the cartridge & styli are at a wife-friendly price. This latter feature is almost as important.

[@DAVIDGREGORYKERR]

What about a new old stock REVOX B790 that has been recapped and the tiny belt in the tonearm assembly that drives the stylus across the record and back replaced as it is rubber it will most likely go all gooey, I think that the REVOX B790 would be the best because it plays records the way the master was cut on a record cutting lathe.

[@mrmaschinaadventures]

Joe, fabulous video, thank you! I am about to publish a new audiophile book, 2019 Guidebook - Home Audiophile for Regular Guys On a Budget, and your infirmation here is timely and interesting. While it makes sense that the 3600 sounds better with a stylus upgrade, it is nevertheless less of a quality cartridge than their AT95E, . Within the budget range, your comments make sense. However, jumping up to higher quality turntable in a higher budget, then the upgrade for the AT95E to the AT 95VL $140 or 95SHibata $170 stylus then you've achieved a higher level of audio nirvana :) with the At95 series far above the AT3600 which is where it belongs. Best to you, Mario

[@manFromPeterborough]

The L suffix in the 3600 means low compliance (VWestlife says this about the 3600)

[@cassettedecksresurrection7204]

My 'go to' cartridge when i go cheap...in a budget range up to 150$....i always prefer the AT3600L 😆✌️

[@marcosmeza1678]

Hey Joe, I have a Technics Quartz Direct Drive SL-Q350, with AT92E stylus. Would the AT95E be an upgrade for my turntable? Love this video, very informative. Thank you.

[@EzeeLinux]

No... That turntable takes a P-mount style cartridge. None of the carts I talk about here are P-mount. You already have the best cart for the money you can get for a P-mount in 2021. Just replace the stylus. :)

[@thomaslytle5519]

Question: I have the Audio Technica AT-95e cartridge and stylus. Would the AT-95ex Stylus fit my 95e cartridge? And if so, would I notice any improvement?

[@EzeeLinux]

Yes it will fit. No, not much. :)

[@paianis]

I think the Ortofon OM and Super OM bodies are the same regardless of the styli they ship with, but the 2M Red/Blue and Bronze/Black bodies are different.

[@vkltube]

Hello, and thanks for sharing! What speakers and amp do you use? If could share your knowledge on that....

[@EzeeLinux]

I'm using an H.H. Scott 25 watt per channel receiver from 1987 and a pair of Fluance SX6 speakers on milk crates for stands. Cheap but good. :)

[@JoeOrber]

Lol I also like the AT3600L over my other, more expensive cartridges. I'm waiting to get a Nagaoka MP-110, we'll see if it lives up to the hype, but the 3600L is fantastic

[@JoeOrber]

Update: wow, the Nagaoka MP-110 is fantastic! I use it mostly for new/pristine records, but it sounds great with good/very good records too. For records that have more wear I'm sticking with the AT3600L or the Ortofon Concorde MK2 DJ cartridges, which have a conical stylus

[@EddieJazzFan]

Mr. Joe, Do you know what kind of cantilever is on the Gemini pre-mounted version?

[@EzeeLinux]

It appears to be an AT3600L with a carbon fiber cantilever. It' tracks nicely at 3 grams. :)

[@manFromPeterborough]

@@EzeeLinux I would kick it back to 2.7g, My Optimus LAB 2250 tracks at that force (factory spec)

[@Booming-letsplays]

Audiophilia makes you a audiofile?

[@paulaj2829]

i've just fitted the AT-VM95E to my Linn K9 cartridge & i feel as though it's doing find .. would you have any ideas if this is not the right set up after having a K9 stylus for so long on my Linn K9 cartridge ..Paul

[@EzeeLinux]

If it sounds good to you that's all that counts. :)

[@Mm1twiggy]

Same setup on my Linn Axis. Just doesn’t look great!

[@MikinessAnalog]

I had a reverse question please. What is the best material and shape of styli to cut (record) with? I have tried everything from glass to surgical steel to titanium and even ceramics.

[@EzeeLinux]

Sapphire... :)

[@MikinessAnalog]

@@EzeeLinux Seems that will be a tiny bit more expensive than the titanium trial.

[@stevesstuff1450]

Joe: You commented about replacement styli suitable for the Ortofon OM5E, and possible compatibility issues with the OM10E.... well, the OM10E, and the OM20E styli are fully compatible with the Ortofon OM5E cartridge....the stylus is the only different part (Much like the new AT-VM95E cartridge and it's range of styli). The Ortofon series that may not be compatible with the OM5E would be those from the "Super OM10" and "Super OM20" cartridges: the "Super" carts being improved over the standard range with different coils/pole-pieces/magnets.....

[@boris1970able]

Joe can I replace the styli on the 3600 with 100e and shibata styli???

[@EzeeLinux]

I don't think they're the same. You can buy upgraded styli for the 3600, though. :)

[@vinniemorciglio4632]

Super OM10 $72. great balance

[@vinniemorciglio4632]

It's the SUPER OM series cart it self that is wired differently. The 10 and up Stylus can be used, but you may not get all the tonal differences that the Super cart upgrade emphasize.

[@phill_strange_media_1980]

I found the AT3600 to be quite flat & dull compared to the AT95e & AT95ex. There's a reason the AT3600 is only around $20- & that Audio Technica put it on there lower end turntables.

[@EzeeLinux]

I found it to be bright and clean. It was more detailed then the AT95E. You gotta have the right stylus for it.

[@vencibushy]

What drives the prices of 3600's low is the sheer amount of them being manufactured and sold by AT. I wager that it's one of the best selling cartridges in AT's portfolio.

[@jorgemtrevino]

@@vencibushy Also a pop, click and imperfection swallower for those ill kept records yo get in the basket cases friends give away when cleaning garages. It has also a nice warm, round sound for lower end pressings (like Mexican "Peerless" London and Decca dupes).

[@banjoperator]

Really.Really...hmmmm..never used this cart before i thnk, but am curious is speced like alot of the old shures,my current is shure v15 mark 4, but i swap in and out a at 95e and an ortofon omb 10 with the omb 20 stylus depending on what im listening to using a cec bd6000 tt along with a pioneer pl-35.. so i gots to try this one....thanks Mr. Collins..from one audio guy to another..

[@EzeeLinux]

They simply do not make anything like the Shure V-15 anymore... What a wonderful cart! :)

[@banjoperator]

No,that they dont, i haunt second ha d shops now for carts like this.. its yeilded some very good one the tt are junked or salvaged but at say 20.00 can for a shure its worth it..lol @@EzeeLinux

[@dadrummer1977]

Hi The At95E Fit My Pioneer Plx-500

[@Danthehorse]

I wish there was a high compliance elliptical variant of the 3600 stylus, mt Project Genie is putting up with a Rega Carbon with LP Gear elliptical, but its lower compliance.

[@EzeeLinux]

I have tried most of the elliptical for this cart and none of them sound as good as the stylus that comes with it.

[@lorenzadickerson9551]

What about Gtado blue

[@Roamany-Jones]

I disagree the AT VM series are all great budget MM cartridges and a big improvement over the old AT series. The Goldring E series are all a bit disappointing especially when compared to their 1012 GX or their magnificent 1042 (which I am using at the moment). The Ortofon OM10 is yuk, so the OM5 has to be worse. The best cartridge ever for under £40 (I’m a Brit) is the Nagaoka MP11, don’t know if you can buy it in the States. I hear the higher priced Nag’s from the MP110 and up are pretty impressive but not had a chance to compare it to my beloved 1042.

[@-x21-]

Roland Jones remember all cartridges need different loadings.

[@2010stoof]

If you mean the mp110 that's a $125 cart. Nowhere near budget

[@manFromPeterborough]

The Gemini HS15 headshell has shoddy finish quality in the paint work and crooked azinuth as well as reversed stereo connections as Joe mentioned

[@2010stoof]

How does the at3600l compare to the new vm95c? Wondering if the new conical is improved over the budget king 3600l!?!

[@EzeeLinux]

The AT 3600L is brighter but requires 3 gm while the AT95c is grams and has a smother sound without the blistering high end. :)

[@2010stoof]

@@EzeeLinux so worth the upgrade for someone who only has 3600L? Worth the time to even get the vm95c stylus if someone has the vm95E cart?

[@EzeeLinux]

@@2010stoof Get an older AT95E instead. It's better... :)

[@2010stoof]

@@EzeeLinux well I already have the new vm95e lol. Didn't know better when ordering. And the 3600l (which I found new old stock made in Japan stylus's) Since I have the VM should I still pick up the at95E? And you said the vm95c is an upgrade to the 3600L (curious if you tried the older made in Japan aluminum cantilever stylus)

[@DJPenguino51]

Ian from HiViNyws wasn't impressed with the goldring either. The Nagaoka mp110 stomped all over the Goldring E2 and E3 (and definitely the new AT VM95E). I used to use a 2M Red but also didn't like that "gritty / hashy" sound either. Inner Groove Distortion on my 2M Red was horrible, no matter how I had it aligned, whether its the Technics 52mm gauge, Stevenson, or Baerwald alignments.I now use an AT VM540EN.

[@spartansfan1026]

What do you think of your cartridge? I was thinking about getting the VM540ML as the stated stylus life seems quite impressive.

[@DJPenguino51]

@@spartansfan1026 I'm not sure if you were replying to me or not but I'm sure the VM540ML would be a very fine cartridge. There are several people that have posted videos of their 540ML's on youtube and they sound superb. As for mine (the EN), it sound very good to me, especially now that it has broken in. Bass was thin for the first 15 or so records but now it sounds fuller. It's treble is very open and airy. It tracks inner grooves very well too...MUCH better than the 2M Red.

[@spartansfan1026]

@@DJPenguino51 Sorry, I read "VM540" and my brain filled in the "ML". You have the VM530EN then? It's good to hear that you like it. I've seen some middling reviews on KZbin so I'm looking around for opinions on these newer AT cartridges from everyday users. I'm looking to supplement an old Stanton cartridge so I'm hoping to find something that will be nearly the same quality.

[@zetmoon]

The output is listed as sensitivity!

[@Roamany-Jones]

Did you say you use a Crossley turntable?

[@DavidSmith-rc7hs]

Great vid, now can we do a 200 dollar and less vid?

[@selpingos]

Hi Joe can i change my at300l cartridge to an AT95E on my AT-LP60?

[@EzeeLinux]

No. The AT3600L cartridge is integrated onto the arm on the LP60 and can't be replaced. :)

[@selpingos]

@@EzeeLinux 🥴😔

[@garykarlin1777]

Grado Black2?

[@mongolbasy]

C in have more than 400 pf

[@isuru221]

Have you tried Nagaoka mp-110 ?

[@EzeeLinux]

Nope. Heard it's very good, though. I am going with a 2M Blue for now so maybe that will be the next big cart purchase. :)

[@claudioiovine4519]

A HAVE THIS CARTRIDGE VERY GOOD BUT MORE EXPENSIVE THINK BOUT IT

[@manFromPeterborough]

@@EzeeLinux The MP110 is warmer compared to AT-95E, is better suited to folk/ambient/jazz, Darren Lock's review is the AT-95E is better suited to rock than the Nag

[@davefaddel6761]

You woke up from a nightmare in 2008 ... :-)

[@cjmillsnun]

I am going to take issue with you saying a conical stylus tracking at 3g causes less damage than an elliptical stylus tracking at 2g. It simply isn't true on a cartridge that has been correctly set up. As you said the elliptical has a greater contact area. Therefore the pressure is smaller as it is spread out over that larger area. It is simple physics. Therefore to use the AT-VM95 cart as an example, All styli track at 2g on that cartridge, the kindest to the record is the AT-VMN95ML, then the AT-VMN95SH, then the AT-VMN95EN, then the AT-VMN95E and the worst is the AT-VMN95C. When it's not set up right, then yes the conical will always do less damage, as if the stylus is even slightly out of line, then a non conical stylus would be more like a chisel.. One reason why DJ turntables generally use conical styli is that they are moved around, may not be on a level surface and are probably treated more roughly than a turntable used in a Hi Fi system. In that respect conical is a safer bet as he overhang on the headshell is set up by eye using an overhang gauge rather than a protractor on the platter.

[@EzeeLinux]

Unfortunately, the real world disagrees with you. Research I've read and seen conducted myself with other collectors shows that an advanced stylus will eat a polystyrene record no matter how well it is aligned. Simple physics starts to get very complicated inside a modulated groove...

[@socksumi]

So four different models from one company alone (AT) is a cartridge shootout? The deck appears to be stacked in favour of AT. One budget cartridge each from seven companies would be more fair and balanced.

[@EzeeLinux]

There aren't seven companies anymore... This was just what I had. All for fun. :)

[@owenlaprath4135]

Audiophilia is indeed a severe affliction. Combined in my case with Model-Rail-a-Mania and(!) Cameratism, it is deadly, and makes for soundscapes and capturing everything in motion in a way that is ghoulish ....

[@Tunz909]

Joe, didn't you say stay away from ceramic stylus? the AT-3600L is ceramic. And it's your winner?

[@EzeeLinux]

The AT-3600L is NOT ceramic... It's moving magnet just like the rest.

[@Tunz909]

@@EzeeLinux all right....so when I see "product info ads" that say ceramic, i should just disregard. good thanks! Went to "The Exchange" yesterday, in Elyria, Ohio they tried to sell me "JUST" the "AT 95E" stylus ( no cartridge/no shell for 75 dollars!!!) I have a Technics shell, with a AT cartridge attached, looking for a new stylus. The turntable is the Technics SL D202. Don't they sell the whole package of shell, cart and stylus------ so all I have to do is screw the whole unit into the tone arm? I mean that's how I took it off the tone arm--- all 3 attached. Would this AT-3600L come in a combo 3 way package? The price seems almost too good to be true. thanks Bruce

[@EzeeLinux]

The AT3600L comes with the nuts and bolts and that's it. Some retailers sell carts that are on headshells but they usually charge too much for the headshell which jacks the price way up and you still have to align it. Technics tables are easy to alien, though. It's usually a matter of measuring 52 mm from the rubber washer on the headshell plug to the stylus tip while making sure the cartridge is straight in the headshll. You can download a copy of your manual to make sure... :)

[@Tunz909]

@@EzeeLinux I have a manual on order it should he here in a few days. The model number on the cart is AT 11EPQ Made in Japan If I'm saving money on this AT3600L , and the stylus is attached with the shell connected I'll pay the extra few bucks for it to be all inclusive. I have huge hands/thick fingers/almost 70 and eye sight is not really all that good for tiny electronic work. Plenty of videos on how to align, so I'm sure I'll be able to follow their instructions on that. thanks for your help

[@Tunz909]

@@EzeeLinux Be advised, I'm a musician/pianist just looking to get the best sound I can afford. No scratching or anything like that. I'd never be able to pass a "Roadie" test for employment that's for sure;-) I have hundreds of 45's from the 50's 60's and 70's that I refuse to give up! Many vintage LP's most of my newer vinyl are box sets that have been released by McCartney/The Beatles/ and assorted artists. Billy Joel is releasing a VINYL BOX SET NUMBER 1 in November, I'll be sure to get that. Also love The BeachBoys/Brian Wilson/anything by Dylan as well. In a way I'm not hard to please in regards to audio entertainment pleasure. If my records back in the 50's /60's didn't skip or repeat------I considered them perfect:-)

[@hifitommy]

just in case you don't know, needle doctor is defunct now for a few years.

[@rafacq]

I’m guilty of setting my stylus at the lightest possible point because I didn’t want to “erode” the grooves of my records! Thank you for a great video.

[@bertodiy]

can i sell all my worn out diamond needles at the jewelry store? does it have value? lol!

[@EzeeLinux]

No. Worn out needles eat records. Throw them away.

[@VicariousAdventurer]

Audio=Technica Neat way to sneak in advertising?

[@boris1970able]

E1 is 3.5 mv output 😉

[@carlosroslo5765]

???

[@bkkersey93]

Factually the Microline is the best, most hifi stylus. That's just non negotiable.

[@EzeeLinux]

There's not microline available for under $100 which places outside the scope of this video.

[@bkkersey93]

@@EzeeLinux I said that in response to you stating about different opinions of which stylus shape is best. Of course I dont remember you stating which one you preferred. And I'd like to see a video on where you are now with your turntable setup since you dont post many of those videos.

[@EzeeLinux]

@@bkkersey93 I am suing a Stanton 500 Mk II Broadcast Series cart with the original D50E ..4 x .7 stylus. Amazing sound,

[@bkkersey93]

@@EzeeLinux My first Stanton cart was the 500 V3 that came with the T.92 turntable. Good times. We need another vinyl related video, I really enjoy your videos.

[@bobbyhenneberger9219]

need to start aligning your carts correctly man..... om 5e 2m red at 95e are all better if properly aligned

[@EzeeLinux]

What makes you think I don't know how to align a cart? FYIt, each cart I tested for this video was setup to perfect Baerwald.... Don't make assumptions.

[@bobbyhenneberger9219]

@@EzeeLinux ..... the at 3600l is a good cart but there is a reason it is on 20 dollar crosley tables and every entry level table.... this cart does not track as well as the 2m red or the at 95 e and it does not sound as well... like i said do not get me wrong its a nice sounding cart but its just not in the same league as the at 95 e or 2m red,,, and its not a matter of opinion its fact,,, both those carts are better trackers and are better on record wear...... i Have put that 3600 on vpi aries and a linn lp 12 i have heard that cart the best it can sound and track and its not in the same league as the 2m red....theres a reason the stylus are 5 to 10 to replace............ like i said its a great budget banger for a 1st setup but it does not reveal more or handle IGD as well as the others.... but hey for 10 to 20 bucks for cart and stylus it will get the job done.....

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Lol! I found the many 2m Reds I set up for people to be universally terrible! Coarse high end...sibilant and high distortion just as you said so WHY did you recomend it? Why do most in the USA rate it when here in the uk if a deck comes fitted with it or the Rega Carbon...they get swapped out quick for the AT 95e which remains the best budget cart now just as it has been for the last 30 years. If the at3600L is as bad as the cheap and extremely nasty rega carbon then seriously..it cannot be recomended over the at95e. Its cheap and very very nasty!

[@EzeeLinux]

The first generaration of the 2M red was great... Later models sound as you describe. I gueszs that's why they were so heavily touted early on. I disagree about the AT95e being better than the 3600L. The AT95e's sryl;us is sibilant and the high frequencies are rolled off. No thanks. I used to like it until I heard better.

[@grimoire7851]

cheap people of the world unite marantz 4000 reloop 4000 philips 5cd hinse tv all 200 by €, ortofon omgt turbo thinking about m510 needle is it fit, good listen must try 3600

[@mongolbasy]

at95e is better

[@EzeeLinux]

No, it's not.

[@georgedoughly6344]

There is NO Way that the 3600 is better than the AT95EX.

[@EzeeLinux]

Try it and see for yourself. :)