Audio-Technica AT-VM540ML/H Headshell & Cartridge Combo Kit

Audio-Technica AT-VM540ML/H Headshell & Cartridge Combo Kit

The Audio-Technica AT-VM540ML/H Headshell & Cartridge Combo Kit combines the advanced AT-VM540ML Dual Moving Magnet cartridge with a pre-mounted headshell, offering a convenient and high-performance solution for detailed vinyl playback. Designed for compatible turntables and tonearms with a standard 1/2-inch cartridge connection, the combination provides accurate groove tracking and excellent stereo separation.

At the heart of the AT-VM540ML is a precision Nude MicroLinear stylus with a 2.2 × 0.12 mil curvature radius. The MicroLinear profile is engineered to closely follow the record groove, helping reproduce fine musical details while maintaining accurate tracking across the record surface. Its nude stylus construction also helps keep moving mass low for responsive and precise playback.

The cartridge uses Audio-Technica’s VM Dual Moving Magnet design along with an aluminum tapered pipe cantilever. This combination is designed to deliver accurate stylus movement and detailed stereo reproduction. The cartridge provides a wide frequency response of 20–27,000 Hz, a 4.0 mV output voltage, and 28 dB channel separation at 1 kHz.

For reliable vinyl tracking, the AT-VM540ML is designed to operate with a tracking force of 1.8–2.2 g, with 2.0 g recommended as the standard setting. It has a 23° vertical tracking angle and uses a recommended 47 kΩ load impedance with 100–200 pF load capacitance, making it suitable for standard moving-magnet phono inputs and compatible phono preamplifiers.

The AT-VM540ML/H has a total cartridge-and-headshell weight of approximately 16.8 g and compact dimensions of 21.3 × 21.0 × 60.4 mm. The cartridge itself weighs 6.4 g. The included headshell provides a ready-to-install configuration, reducing the need for separate cartridge mounting and alignment before use.