The world of audio is vast and ever-evolving, with numerous options available for every component of your sound system. When it comes to cartridges, the Audio Technica AT-VM95SH and the Ortofon 2M Blue stand out as two of the most popular and highly regarded choices. Both offer exceptional sound quality and performance, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of these two cartridges, comparing their features, specifications, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision for your audio system.

Specifications and Features

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

• Cartridge Type: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Stylus: Shibata
• Stylus Radius: 0.003″ x 0.007″
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 25kHz
• Output Voltage: 3.5mV
• Compliance: 15µm/mN
• Tracking Force: 1.8 – 2.2g
• Weight: 6.1g

Ortofon 2M Blue

• Cartridge Type: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Stylus: Elliptical
• Stylus Radius: 0.002″ x 0.007″
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Output Voltage: 5.5mV
• Compliance: 20µm/mN
• Tracking Force: 1.6 – 2.0g
• Weight: 7.2g

Sound Quality

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

The AT-VM95SH is renowned for its exceptional detail retrieval and clarity. Its Shibata stylus provides a wide contact area with the record groove, resulting in a highly accurate and transparent sound. The cartridge exhibits a neutral and balanced frequency response, with a slight emphasis on the high frequencies that adds a touch of sparkle and airiness to the music.

Ortofon 2M Blue

The 2M Blue is known for its warm and musical sound. Its elliptical stylus offers a good balance between detail and smoothness, delivering a rich and engaging listening experience. The cartridge has a slightly warmer tonal balance compared to the AT-VM95SH, with a fuller midrange and a slightly rolled-off high end.

Tracking Ability

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

The AT-VM95SH has an impressive tracking ability, thanks to its high compliance and low tracking force. It can effortlessly glide through warped records and handle complex passages with ease. The Shibata stylus provides excellent grip on the record groove, minimizing distortion and sibilance.

Ortofon 2M Blue

The 2M Blue also exhibits good tracking ability, though it is slightly less compliant than the AT-VM95SH. It can handle most records without issue, but may struggle with heavily warped or damaged records. The elliptical stylus provides a good balance between tracking ability and detail retrieval.

Versatility and Compatibility

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

The AT-VM95SH is a versatile cartridge that can be used with a wide range of tonearms. Its low tracking force and high compliance make it suitable for both high-mass and low-mass tonearms. The cartridge is also compatible with a variety of headshells and mounting options.

Ortofon 2M Blue

The 2M Blue is also a versatile cartridge, but it is best suited for medium to high-mass tonearms. Its higher tracking force and lower compliance make it less compatible with low-mass tonearms. The cartridge is compatible with most standard headshells and mounting options.

Build and Reliability

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

The AT-VM95SH is a well-built cartridge with a solid construction. Its body is made of a lightweight and durable material, and the stylus is securely mounted. The cartridge is known for its longevity and reliability, making it a good investment for long-term use.

Ortofon 2M Blue

The 2M Blue is also a well-built cartridge, but it is slightly heavier than the AT-VM95SH. Its body is made of a sturdy plastic material, and the stylus is securely mounted. The cartridge is known for its durability and reliability, though it may not be as long-lasting as the AT-VM95SH.

Price and Value

Audio Technica AT-VM95SH

The AT-VM95SH is typically priced around $150-$200. For the price, it offers exceptional sound quality, tracking ability, and versatility. It is an excellent value for money and a great choice for audiophiles on a budget.

Ortofon 2M Blue

The Ortofon 2M Blue is typically priced around $250-$300. It offers a slightly warmer and more musical sound compared to the AT-VM95SH, but it is not as versatile in terms of tonearm compatibility. For the price, it is still a good value for money, especially if you prefer a warmer tonal balance.

In a nutshell: The Audiophile’s Choice

The choice between the Audio Technica AT-VM95SH and the Ortofon 2M Blue ultimately depends on your personal preferences and system setup. If you prioritize detail retrieval, tracking ability, and versatility, the AT-VM95SH is an excellent choice. If you prefer a warmer and more musical sound, the Ortofon 2M Blue is a great option. Both cartridges offer exceptional sound quality and performance, and they are sure to enhance your listening experience.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which cartridge is better for high-resolution audio?

Both cartridges are capable of handling high-resolution audio, but the AT-VM95SH has a slightly wider frequency response and better detail retrieval.

2. Can I use the same stylus on both cartridges?

No, the stylus shapes are different between the two cartridges. The AT-VM95SH uses a Shibata stylus, while the Ortofon 2M Blue uses an elliptical stylus.

3. Which cartridge is easier to set up?

The AT-VM95SH is generally easier to set up due to its lower tracking force and higher compliance. It is more forgiving of minor alignment errors.

4. Which cartridge is more durable?

Both cartridges are known for their durability, but the AT-VM95SH is slightly more robust and long-lasting due to its lightweight construction and securely mounted stylus.

5. Which cartridge offers better value for money?

The AT-VM95SH offers a slightly better value for money due to its lower price and exceptional performance. However, both cartridges are excellent choices in their respective price ranges.