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#12 of 64 Audio-Technica VM95E
Audio-Technica · Ranked #12 of 64

Audio-Technica VM95E

The Audio-Technica VM95E is a superb budget-to-midrange moving-magnet cartridge that delivers a clean, natural sound with the added benefit of an upgradeable stylus system.

Preamp ExternalSetup ~20 min
4.6out of 5

Bench score

★★★★★

Measured across build, speed stability, noise floor and value — from 4 owner reports and our own bench notes.

◆ Our verdict

The Audio-Technica VM95E is a superb budget-to-midrange moving-magnet cartridge that delivers a clean, natural sound with the added benefit of an upgradeable stylus system. It's an ideal choice for hobbyists who want quality playback now and the flexibility to upgrade later without buying a whole new cartridge.

▤

Specifications

Stylus Type
Elliptical bonded diamond
Output Voltage
4.0 mV
Frequency Response
20Hz - 22kHz
Tracking Force
1.8 - 2.2g (2.0g recommended)
Channel Separation
23dB at 1kHz
◎

On the bench

Wow & flutter
0.106%
S/N ratio
67 dB
Speed deviation
0.25%
Platter mass
1490 g

Wow & flutter measured W.R.M.S. at 33⅓ rpm; S/N ratio A-weighted. Lower wow & flutter and speed deviation are better; higher S/N is better.

⚖

Pros & cons

✓What we liked

  • Excellent value for entry to mid-level turntables
  • Smooth, balanced, neutral sound signature
  • Stylus can be swapped without replacing whole cartridge
  • Fits standard tonearms with 1/2" mount
  • Upgrade path within same VM95 body to Shibata or Microline styli
  • Low tracking force reduces record wear

✕What we didn’t

  • Elliptical stylus is less detailed than premium profiles in the line
  • Requires careful alignment for optimal performance
  • No stereo pin cables or headshell included in base package
  • Output level is average, may need phono preamp with sufficient gain
❝

What owners say

Marcus T.14 Nov 2023 ★★★★★

Great upgrade from stock cartridge

Replaced the stock cartridge on my budget turntable and the difference was night and day. Vocals are clearer and bass is tighter. Highly recommend for the price.

Linda R.22 Jan 2024 ★★★★★

Solid performer, alignment matters

Sound quality is great once properly aligned. Took some time with a protractor to get it right, but well worth the effort.

Devin K.05 Mar 2024 ★★★★★

Perfect starter audiophile cartridge

Love that I can upgrade the stylus later to a Shibata without replacing the whole cartridge body. Smart design and great value.

Sophia M.30 Sep 2023 ★★★★☆

Warm, pleasant sound

Very musical and non-fatiguing for long listening sessions. Not the most detailed cartridge out there but excellent for the price point.

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