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PREOWNED – FULLY TESTED – GREAT CONDITION – ONLY INCLUDES THE CARTRIDGE and STYLUS with GUARD
The VM530EN is a top-end elliptical stylus cartridge in Audio-Technica’s new VM cartridge line – a line that harks back to A-T’s early days as a manufacturer primarily of high-end phono cartridges, while also incorporating today’s advanced technology. Like all VM cartridges, the VM530EN is equipped with dual magnets that are positioned to match the left and right channels in the stereo record groove for outstanding channel separation and extended frequency response. The cartridge’s lightweight 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical nude stylus reduces the execution mass of the vibration system, enabling fuller frequency reproduction and less tracking distortion than a bonded stylus. Includes mounting hardware.
• VM dual magnet cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical nude stylus
• Aluminum cantilever
• Paratoroidal coils improve generating efficiency
• Center shield plate between the left and right channels reduces crosstalk
• Durable low-resonance polymer cartridge housing
Frequency Response
20-25,000 Hz
Channel Separation
27 dB (1 kHz)
Vertical Tracking Force
1.8-2.2 g (2.0 g standard)
Stylus Construction
Nude round shank
Recommended Load Impedance
47,000 ohms
Output
4.5 mV (at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)
Channel Balance
1.5 dB (1 kHz)
Stylus Shape
0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical
Cantilever
Aluminum pipe
Mount
Half-inch
Replacement Stylus
VMN30EN
Coil Impedance: 2,700 ohms (1 kHz)
DC Resistance: 800 ohms
Load Capacitance: 100-200 pF
Coil Inductance: 460 mH (1 kHz)
Static Compliance:35 x 10-6 cm/dyne
Dynamic Compliance: 8 x 10-6 cm/dyne (100 Hz)
Vertical Tracking Angle: 23°
Dimensions: 17.3 mm (0.7″) H x 17.0 mm (0.7″) W x 28.2 mm (1.1″) D
Weight: 6.4 g (0.2 oz)
The VM530EN is a solid mid-tier moving magnet cartridge that typically trades used between $120–$180 depending on condition and stylus wear. At $165, you're looking at fair pricing for a clean example, though it's not a steal. The real question is stylus condition—these nude elliptical styli wear predictably, and replacement costs run $40–$60. If the seller can't confirm low play hours or recent stylus replacement, factor that into your offer.
Before committing, verify the stylus is original or recently replaced and inspect it under magnification for visible wear or damage. Confirm the cartridge tracks cleanly at the recommended 2.0 grams and that channel balance is even across your system—a worn or misaligned stylus will sound thin or favor one channel. Also check that all mounting hardware and the replacement stylus part number (VMN30EN) documentation are included, since sourcing these later adds friction to the deal.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Founded in 1962 in Tokyo's Shinjuku district by Hideo Matsushita, Audio-Technica began as a phonograph cartridge specialist, launching the innovative AT-1 moving-magnet model with a diamond-tipped cantilever that revolutionized affordable high-fidelity playback. Starting with just three employees in a rented house and one million yen in capital, the company quickly expanded, supplying cartridges to Japanese audio manufacturers and relocating as demand surged. This heritage of precision engineering and democratic access to superior sound defines its enduring Japanese craftsmanship.
Audio-Technica has broadened far beyond cartridges into a comprehensive lineup of hi-fi essentials, excelling in headphones, professional microphones, turntables, and phonographic styli. While not heavily focused on amplifiers, speakers, or DACs, it produces elite receivers, wireless systems, and cables, alongside OEM transducers and sensors for pro audio. Its turntables and headphones span entry-level to audiophile grades, with Bluetooth and noise-cancelling models bridging consumer and studio needs.
Renowned for delivering exceptional value through durable, innovative design, Audio-Technica occupies a solid mid-tier position in the hi-fi market, prized by enthusiasts for reliability without extravagant pricing. It garners consistent awards for performance and builds trust via Olympic-grade microphones and global subsidiaries, appealing to discerning buyers seeking proven engineering over boutique exclusivity.
See all Audio-Technica listings on RADAR.
