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v.1.9.0 updated 07/17/2026
Damn it, I tried, but mistakes happen. Check if you don't want to fall into a trap!
cartz@phonoculture.com
Damn it, I tried, but mistakes happen. Check if you don't want to fall into a trap!
cartz@phonoculture.com
Hi!
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[Test Note] Check Empire 2000E/III on my setup
Audio-Technica VM540ML
The Audio-Technica VM540ML is a moving magnet cartridge of the upper mid-range class fitted with a MicroLine stylus profile. Its output of 4 mV suits the standard MM input of any phono stage without extra gain. The rated tracking force runs from 1.8 to 2.2 g with a nominal setting of 2.0 g, and the stylus assembly is the replaceable VMN40ML. Phono Culture lists 2 compatible replacement styli for this model.
- Class:
Upper Mid-Range
- Mounting
- standard 1/2"
- Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D)
- 6.4 g · 17,3 × 17,0 × 28,2 mm
- Output Voltage
- 4 mV
- Frequency Response
- 20–27 000 Hz
- Channel Separation
- 28 dB
- Channel Balance
- 1.0 dB
- Recommended Load
- 47 kΩ || 100–200 pF
- Tracking Force
- 1.8–2.2 g (nominal 2.0 g)
- VTA
- 23°
- Compliance Value
- dynamic 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne (100Hz); static 40 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
- Cantilever
- aluminium tapered pipe
Additional Info
The VM540ML is detailed and forgiving at once. Its MicroLine profile pulls fine trace information out of the groove while staying gentle on rough pressings, so vocals sit natural and the stage stays believable rather than clinical. Bass carries enough body to anchor the mix without dominating, which suits jazz, acoustic and general listening on mid-tier tables. The stylus is user-replaceable, and the aluminum cantilever keeps the sound honest rather than hyped.
Replacement styluses for Audio-Technica VM540ML
| Audio-Technica | VMN50SH | Shibata |
| Audio-Technica | VMN60SLC | Fine Line |
Sound × Setup
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add 01/08/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026