AT ART-9 vs Audio Note IQ3

I can't speak to the AN, but I've been running in a fresh ART 7(my second) on a 4Point after a long run with a $3K Accuphase AC-5 on the Kuzma.  The match with the ART 7 is superior in every way.

It’s all about the gain structure of your phono stage. The 1.2mV ART7 is fine at +76db on my Pass XP-25, but could get by with a bit less gain. The ART7 uses non-permeable coil formers, which reduces its output but provides theoretically improved SQ. In other respects the two cartridges are similar, and either should perform well on the 4PT. The ART7 is fairly high compliance. It sounds better on the 4PT with slightly lower inertial mass after removing the middle of its three main counterweights. I suspect that AT’s addition of the ART9 model was primarily about ease of use.

If it was an ebay purchase, you are well protected for damage. I’d plug ’n play. If it doesn’t work right, return it. If it does work right, photo the inside of the box to document the problem and contact the seller with a request for a token discount for the visible wear and tear.