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Looking for a Replacement for AT VM740ML Cartridge

Thinking of changing out my AT VM740ML Cartridge being I feel it’s a little bright. I like the transparency but would like just a “SLIGHT BIT” more warmth without it deadening the sound, so looking for recommendations.

Previous carts used: 

Ortofon Super OM20 which I loved on a previous TT, just not compatible with my tonearm on my current turntable.

Ortofon 2MBlue - Did not last and like the OM20 better

Sumiko Moonstone - Way too dull sounding 

Turntable is a EAT B Sharp and Currently using a Gold Note PH-10 Phono PreAmp with the external power supply, and even with it set to -3 dB on all the EQ settings still seems to be on the bright side.

I’d like to stick with MM, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks 

 

skiznfliz
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,439 posts
 

I second the AT VM540ML.  I purchased one and use it in rotation on my Technics SL1200G turntable.   For Rock, it is amazing and I think it sounds better than the cartridge you are using.  Yours seems to have tipped up highs. I also have a Shure V15 Type IV.  I love this cartridge the best and I play a lot of Jazz records with it.  For Classical, I use a ZU modified Denon DL103 moving coil.  It takes me less than 5 minutes to swap cartridges, rebalance arm and adjust tonearm height. 

richardbrand's avatar
richardbrand
235 posts
 

@stereo5 

I currently use a new VM540ML and have a Shure V15 type III.  Three questions: what tracking weight are you using for the VM540ML what stylus on the Shure, and does your Shure have the carbon fibre brush?

theflattire
208 posts
 

Try a Shibata.

I used a 750SH and liked it.

Ortofon 2M Black or Sumiko Amethyst?

richardbrand's avatar
richardbrand
235 posts
 

@theflattire 

Why would you prefer a Shibata stylus shape over a micro-line?  Maybe because the rounder Shibata cannot track the high frequencies as well, leading to a "softer" sound?

Interested in your rationale ...

theflattire
208 posts
 

@richardbrand 

I think the Shibata sounded 'fatter,' closer to an elliptical like a 2M Blue I had.  Never tried the ML.

I upgraded right after to a OC9XSL and thought it sounded thin by comparison.

I never thought the SH lacked in highs though.

This was back when I was running a Darlington Labs MP-7.

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