Audio-Technica AT-VMN30xEN — Nude elliptical replacement stylus

The AT-VMN30xEN replaces the stylus of the AT-VM530xEN cartridge and marks the qualitative step up in the AT-VMx family: here the elliptical diamond is no longer mounted on a shank but is a nude stone, with the tip cut directly into the diamond and bonded to the cantilever. Removing the intermediate metal support lowers moving mass significantly, so the stylus responds sooner to groove modulations.

That mass reduction translates into nimbler transient reading and greater stability in dense passages, where a bonded stylus tends to round off attacks. The cantilever remains aluminium, a choice that keeps the assembly light and affordable without giving up the rigidity needed for clean tracking.

It is the right stylus for anyone already enjoying a VM530xEN who wants its factory performance back, and also for those building an analogue chain around the AT-VMx series who want the first "nude" step in the range. As always, check tracking force —between 1.8 and 2.2 g, with 2.0 g as reference— and keep the tip clean.

Technical specifications:

• Type: replacement stylus for moving-magnet cartridge
• Stylus construction: nude elliptical
• Cantilever: aluminium
• Tracking force: 1.8 to 2.2 g (2.0 g standard)
• Compatible cartridge: AT-VM530xEN (body sold separately)
• Mounting: direct fit, no tools
• Reference: AT-VMN30xEN