10 Best Audio Technica Cartridges 2025 in the United States

The Audio-Technica AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge is equipped with a 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus, which offers good tracking ability and precision. This stylus shape is known for delivering high fidelity sound and minimizing wear on your records. The aluminum cantilever adds to its durability and accurate sound reproduction.

Its specially wound coils boost the output voltage, ensuring a clearer and louder signal, which is beneficial for a wide range of audio systems. The durable, low-resonance polymer housing helps in reducing unwanted vibrations, contributing to a clearer sound. Additionally, the cartridge features threaded inserts, making it easy to mount to the headshell with just two screws, which is a convenient feature for setup and installation.

This cartridge is best suited for enthusiasts who want a reliable and high-quality performance without delving into the top-tier, more expensive options. It has a standard compliance rating and its channel separation, while good, might not match the levels expected by audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity.

The Audio-Technica AT85EP is a turntable cartridge designed especially for P-mount turntables that use a linear tracking system. Its elliptical stylus tip (0.3 x 0.7 mil) helps it track vinyl grooves more precisely than a basic spherical stylus, which can improve sound detail and reduce wear on your records. The dual moving magnet design with para-toroidal coils supports clear sound and good separation between the stereo channels, providing a more immersive listening experience.

This cartridge is compatible with various brands of linear tracking turntables, making it a versatile choice if you have that type of player. It’s a lightweight and compact unit that fits neatly without modification. One downside is that it’s limited to P-mount turntables, so it won’t work with every model out there. If you have a compatible linear tracking turntable, this cartridge offers a solid upgrade that balances quality sound with straightforward setup.

The Audio-Technica AT33PTG/2 is a high-quality dual moving coil cartridge designed for vinyl enthusiasts looking for detailed and precise sound reproduction. It features a Microlinear stylus with a tapered boron cantilever, which helps capture fine audio details and improves clarity, especially in the higher frequencies. The use of advanced materials like a neodymium magnet and pure copper coils contributes to clear signal transfer and strong channel separation, resulting in a more immersive stereo experience.

Its tracking force is moderate, making it compatible with many turntables without risking excessive wear on your records. The frequency response is wide, allowing it to handle a broad range of sound from deep bass to crisp highs. It requires a head amplifier with a recommended load impedance above 100 ohms, so it suits users with the appropriate audio setup.

Though it is pricier and more specialized than entry-level cartridges, the AT33PTG/2 offers excellent build quality and sound performance. This makes it an ideal choice for serious vinyl listeners who want to extract the most detailed and natural sound from their records.