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Phono Cartridge

Audio-Technica AT-VM95C vs Denon DL-110

Audio-Technica AT-VM95C

Audio-Technica AT-VM95C

74 reviews

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in Phono Cartridge

Denon DL-110

40 reviews

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Great value for the price

Ease of installation

Flexible with different stylus options

Powerful and detailed sound

Good starter cartridge for those on a budget

Great value for its price range

Adaptable to different genres and turntables

Brings out more detail in records

Highly recommended for its compatibility and sound quality

Not the most defined or high-end option

Some users note that higher volumes may result in a harsh sound

Some users note that higher notes may be a little weak

Not tracking well on some HiFi News test tracks

Some users have experienced a harsh edge in the sound

May require adjustments to preamp settings for optimal performance

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT-VM95C cartridge is a popular and affordable option for those looking to upgrade or replace their turntable cartridge. It is praised for its powerful and detailed sound, ease of installation, and flexibility with different stylus options. While some users note that it may not be the most defined or high-end option, it is still considered a great starter cartridge for those on a budget. Overall, the AT-VM95C is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their vinyl listening experience.

Verdict

The Denon DL-110 is a highly recommended cartridge for its compatibility and sound quality. It is a great upgrade from stock cartridges and brings out more detail in records. It is adaptable to different genres and turntables, but may require adjustments to preamp settings. Some users have experienced issues with tracking and a harsh edge in the sound. Overall, it is a great value for its price range and a popular choice among audiophiles.

Reviews by Topic

Our analysis shows how reviewers feel about different topics. Please note these are not full reviews.

Sound Quality

Great choice if you are one a budget

I bought this cartridge to replace an old Ortofon cartridge from the 80s that came with my used turntable. The old Ortofon had a warm, gooey, bassy sound and it was absolutely fantastic! Unfortunately, the stylus was just about done, and replacements are no longer available. And I didn't have the money for a nice new cartridge, so budget Audio Technica it had to be. I'm not a huge fan of the bright Audio Technica sound, but the VM95C is really honestly not bad

I've been wanting to upgrade to an MC cartridge for awhile and the opportunity recently presented itself via a NIB Denon DL-110 from Japan at an affordable price. My fears that my Musical Fidelity V90-LPS would have insufficient gain to drive it were immediately proven to be unfounded as I'm able to obtain a comfortable listening level at about 11 o'clock on the dial on my Cambridge Audio 640A amplifier. First impressions are very good, considering that the cart hasn't even begun to break in yet. It's already an improvement over my 2M Blue and Nagaoka MP-110 which were my top MM carts in my collection

Positive

reddit.com/r/turntables

Cartridge Type

Looking for a cart upgrade! (Around $100 CAD)

"Speaking of force and vigor, the AT-VM95C (conical)—which is even cheaper than the $49 elliptical version, at $34—sounded cool, fast, and powerful but also detailed and invigorating. It played complex recordings, like the Stravinsky Conducts Histoire Du Soldat Suite, with power-packed, pitch-perfect bass, a flawlessly toned and detailed midrange, and enough upper-octave energy to make trumpets, drums, and woodwinds sound lifelike and exciting. Drum impact was spectacular. Music-pleasure–wise, Audio-Technica's VM95C was the most satisfying cartridge in this survey

Positive

reddit.com/r/turntables

Good but a bit harsh

I used this cartridge in the latest Rega RP3, NAD 350, HD650, very clear but with a harsh edge. I am now using a Grado Reference Platinum 2, which is as clear as the Denon but smoother. The Denon is very good but a bit aggressive. My preference is the Grado

Frequency Response

Lots of Bass, maybe a little muffled

Bought this to replace damaged cartridge in turntable. Easy to install, powerful bass, higher notes may be a little weak. Sometimes sounds a little muffled.

Very disappointing.

The popping went away in Phono, so I figured no big deal, swapped to Phono and: Issue 2: So. Much. Treble. If I were to graph it: 2/10 on bass, 0/10 on mid, 11/10 on treble

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