More than a few emails have arrived over the last few weeks touting the sonic excellence of Audio-Technica's $169 AT-VM95ML dual moving magnet cartridge. The $236 Ortofon 2M Blue equipped Fluance RT85 was here for review so why not procure a VM95ML and do a direct comparison?

The Audio-Technica specs include 4.5mV output, frequency response of 25Hz-25kHz, 23dB channel separation, 1.5dB output balance, 1.8-2.2g suggested tracking force (2g optimal), recommended load capacitance of 100 to 200pF (load+cable capacitance) and the standard 47kOhm resistive load. Compliance is 20 (x 10-6) . The cartridge weighs 6.1 grams. The nude microLinear stylus is fitted to an aluminum pipe cantilever.

The Ortofon 2M Blue specs include 5.5mV (@1kHz, 5cm/sec), 25dB channel separation at 1kHz, 20-20kHz frequency response (+2/-1dB), dynamic compliance, lateral, 20µm/mN, tracking force range is 1.6 to 2g, with recommended tracking force of 1.8g, and the other specs are very similar to the Audio Technica's, though its coil impedance is about 1/3 that of the A-T. The 2M Blue weighs 7.2 grams and features an aluminum cantilever to which is fitted a nude elliptical stylus.

if you've ever compared a $99 Ortofon Red to a $236 Blue you know the sonic differences are considerable, with the Blue delivering far "faster" and more detailed performance thank in great part to its "nude" rather than the Red's bonded and far higher mass stylus. The A-T's theoretical advantage here is having a microLinear or "ridge" shaped stylus that produces more precise groove contact and less inner-groove distortion instead of the Blue's elliptical one.

Instead of me giving you my opinion, why not listen for yourself? I digitized at 96/24 a selection (Gigout's "Grand Chorus in Dialogue") from Music For Organ, Brass and Percussion (Columbia M 31193) featuring E. Power Biggs and The Columbia Brass and Percussion Ensemble recorded at St. George's Church, in NYC. Edward T. Grham and Larry Keyes engineered the 1972 release, which, with its generous bottom end extension, wide dynamics and spacious ambiance seemed like a good choice to help you decide which you prefer. Of course you will have to listen "blind" and please state your preferences in the comments section. I'll reveal which is which within the week.

File "1"

File "2"

Both cartridges were mounted to the Fluance RT85's tone arm and ran through a moderately priced phono preamp appropriate for this "front end". Try to listen to each independently rather than to "A/B" them and match levels. Enjoy!