Audio Technica's VM 740 ML MM cartridge is derived from the famous Audio Technica AT 150 MLX. It is partly derived from the innovations and technology developed on the manufacturer's new high-end models, like Audio Technica's VM 760 SLC cartridge. To be able to market it at an affordable price, a few technical comprises were necessary.
Audio Technica VM 740 ML: VM Technology
It uses the manufacturer's generator that is standard on the 700 series.
It features dual magnets that use the 'VM' technology. Instead of using one large magnet, the two magnets are arranged in a 'V'.
They are accurately positioned according to the positions of the left and right channels.
The VM design of the AudioTechnica VM740 makes for better channel separation and frequency response.
Para-toroidal coils with high purity PCOCC copper conductors improve the efficiency of the generator and offer great linearity.
A shielding plate has been added between the two coils, hence reducing crosstalk between the channels.
Audio Technica VM 740 ML: Needle
Audio Technica's VM 740 ML cartridge comes with a great Nude Microline stylus.
This high-end stylus has a response in the high frequencies with less distortion and minimises surface noise compared with a standard elliptical stylus.
The stylus of the AudioTechnica VM740 is mounted onto a conical aluminium cantilever. Its weight has been reduced for more velocity and hence better harmonic reproduction and dynamics.
Moreover, the tilting stylus guard embedded in the Audio Technica VM740 ML cartridge is very practical.
Audio Technica VM 740 ML: Body
The structure of the cartridge is made of die-cast aluminium with a gold plating. It is heavier than polymer and improves the cartridge's mechanical and vibratory behaviour. It delivers a more precise and subtler sound quality.
The connectors of this AudioTechnica cartridge are gold-plated.
Its weight, tracking force and compliance make it compatible with most good quality tonearms.
Audio Technica VM 740 ML: Listening and test review
The sound reproduction with this VM 740 ML is quite similar to the now discontinued AT 150 MLX cartridge. Most of its features have been improved.
It has great tracking ability. Surface noise is practically non-existent.
The top of the spectrum is very precise and very well defined. It exhibits a host of details without being overly present.
The mids are clear, open and airy. Reproduction is anything but dark or dull.
Like with all Audio Technica's cartridges, the bass is perfectly controlled and articulate.
Audio Technica's VM 740 ML cartridge is derived from the famous Audio Technica AT 150 MLX cartridge.
A new classic in this range!
FranckType: MM
Frequency response: 20 Hz-27 kHz
Channel separation: 28 dB
Channel balance: 1. dB
Output voltage: 4. mV
VTA: 23°
Tracking force: 1.8/2.2 g
Recommended tracking force: 2 g
Stylus: MicroLine
Stylus tip shape: Nude 0.12 x 02.2 mm
Assembly: integral
Cantilever: conical, aluminium
Compliance: 18 x 10-6 cm/dyne
Coils: para-toroidal, PCOCC conductors
Moving magnet: VM dual magnet
Load impedance: 47 kOhms
Load capacitance: 100-200 pF
Cartridge weight: 8g
Height: 17.3 mm
Mount: ½ inch screw
Replacement stylus: VMN 40ML, VMN 50 SH, VMN 60 SLC
Customer reviews
Excellent rapport qualité-prix
Après avoir possédé une ATVM95Sh, j'ai voulu monter en gamme avec ce modèle. J'ai gagné en dynamique, en niveau de sortie et en spatialisation. La scène sonore est également plus large et il n'y a quasiment plus de bruit de surfaces. Bref pas de regrets bien qu'elle dépasse les 300€, ça en vaut la peine. Audio technica n'a rien à envier à certains de ses concurrents niveau rapport qualité prix.