Audio-Technica AT-VM95E vs Denon DL-110

Replaced a super cheap model AT91 cartridge (they now call it the CN5625AL) that I have had for a long time and was getting a bit worn out- was hoping this would be as good if not a little bit better since this is a 1/2 step up. The VM95E actually sounds a little on the flatter side and a has bit less "punch" - have to turn the volume up a couple extra notches. Might just buy a replacement stylus for the AT91 and go back to that. Also was missing one of the 11mm screws that was in the accessory package so had to go out and and buy a set of screws so I could mount this on my headshell

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

My Pl-400 can do better. Should have stuck with the cheaper model LOL! OK with the deal but would NOT buy it again. Not enough Bass, OK mids and highs don't pop, seems flat.

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

The fight here is three rounds. If you choose the same cartridge each time, we have a clear winner. If you don't choose the same cartridge each time, ...

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

Good soundstage, tracks well. Requires a bit more tracking force than my old one at 1.75 - 2.5 grams

My Blue Point slurred the S's and the Audio Technica cartridge on my Technics SL-1700 also was very sibilant. The Denon reproduces the S's very sharply with no overt sibilance. Dropping the needle on Micheal Jackson's Billy Jean from "Thriller", another track that give cartridges issues, played very well. The sound stage width is very nice, too