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Monday-Friday:
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Lunes a viernes:
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Estamos disponibles 5 días a la semana
Looking for International Support?
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985 902 205 5

Shop smart & save time when you connect with an advisor

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Audio-Technica VM540ML/H Dual moving magnet phono cartridge with MicroLine® stylus and headshell

Audio Technica

Item # 057VM540H

This cartridge features an advanced MicroLine™ stylus that reads every detail of a record groove.

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Audio-Technica VM540ML/H Front
Audio-Technica VM540ML/H Only at Crutchfield

This cartridge features an advanced MicroLine™ stylus that reads every detail of a record groove.

Item # 057VM540H

Every order includes

  • Free lifetime tech support
  • 60-day price-drop protection
  • 60-day returns
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$299.00
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About the Audio-Technica VM540ML/H

Eric A.

by Crutchfield's Eric A.

Product highlights:

  • high-quality phono cartridge pre-mounted in an lightweight headshell
  • suitable for S- or J-shaped tonearms only
VM540ML Cartridge:
  • dual moving magnet design for excellent stereo separation
  • center shield plate between left and right channels reduces crosstalk
  • durable low-resonance polymer cartridge housing
  • 2.2 x 0.12 mil MicroLine stylus traces grooves extremely accurately
    • multilevel shape reduces wear on records
  • all-metal cantilever
  • frequency response 20-27,000 Hz
  • output voltage: 4.0 mV
  • stereo separation: 28 dB
  • channel balance: 1.0 dB
  • tracking force range: 1.8-2.2 grams
  • recommended tracking force: 2.0 grams
  • load impedance: 47k ohms
  • 3/4"W x 3/4"H x 1-1/8"D
  • cartridge weight: 6.4 grams
AT-HS10 Headshell:
  • lightweight aluminum 1/2"-mount headshell
  • finger lift is positioned near the front of headshell to enable precise placement of stylus
  • gold-plated lead wires resist corrosion to ensure good signal transfer
  • 13/16"W x 1/2"H x 2"D
  • weight: 0.4 oz.
  • warranty: 1 year
  • MFR # AT-VM540ML/H
  • Item # 057VM540H
  • California customers: Please click here for your Proposition 65 WARNING.

What's in the box:

Audio-Technica VM540ML/H owner's manual

If you need assistance accessing this owner's manual, please give us a call.
  • Dual moving magnet stereo phono cartridge (pre-mounted to 1/2"-Mount headshell)
  • User Manual
  • Disposal Note

Featured review

This was an upgrade for the cartridge that came with my Audio-Technica. The sound is crisps and clear from the bass to the highs. Some vinyl now sounds better than the CD version.

Robert from Kalamazoo, MI

5 out of 5 stars

See all 80 reviews

Customer Q&A

Q

Is the vm540ml/H compatible with a vintage Yamaha YP-511?

A

Greetings Mike. Thank you for your question. If you have the original S/J shaped tone arm on your Yamaha, this would be a perfect replacement headshell.

More details on the Audio-Technica VM540ML/H

Stacey B.
Researched by Crutchfield's Stacey B.

Features & specs
Type MM
Mounting Standard
Stylus shape Microlinear
Frequency response (Hz) 20-27k
Tracking grams 2.0
Stereo separation (dB) 28
Output voltage (mV) 4.0
Load Impedance (Ohms) 47,000
Load Capacitance (pF) 100-200

Product Research

Features

Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit: Audio-Technica's VM540ML/H combo kit includes the VM540ML MicroLine dual moving magnet cartridge pre-mounted on the AT-HS10BK universal 1/2"-mount headshell that is suitable for S-shaped or J-shaped tonearms.

Dual Moving Magnet Stereo Cartridge: The VM540ML MicroLine stylus cartridge is the premier 500 Series model in Audio-Technica's new VM cartridge line. Like all VM cartridges, the VM540ML 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 MicroLine stylus allows it to trace the record groove with incredible accuracy, resulting in nuanced audio reproduction that elliptical and conical styli simply can't match. The stylus' multilevel shape also wears better than other styli, while reducing the wear on your records.

  • VM dual magnet cartridge with MicroLine stylus
  • Aluminum cantilever
  • Paratoroidal coils improve generating efficiency
  • Center shield plate between the left and right channels reduces crosstalk
  • Durable low-resonance polymer housing

Universal 1/2"-Mount Head Shell: The lightweight aluminum AT-HS10 is a universal 1/2"-mount headshell for 4-pin turntable cartridges. Featuring an aluminum die-cast body, the AT-HS10 is designed to keep vibration to the bare minimum. The finger lift is positioned near the front of headshell to enable precise placement of the stylus onto the record. The headshell is equipped with gold-plated lead wires for lossless signal transmission and comes with mounting screws.

  • Universal 1/2"-mount headshell for 4-pin turntable cartridges
  • Suitable for S-shaped or J-shaped tonearms.
  • Ultra-lightweight aluminum die-cast body keeps vibration to the bare minimum
  • Finger lift is positioned near the front of headshell to enable precise placement of the stylus onto the record
  • Gold-plated lead wires for lossless signal transmission

Specifications:

  • Frequency Response: 20-27,000 Hz
  • Channel Separation: 28 dB (1 kHz)
  • Vertical Tracking Force: 1.8-2.2 g (2.0 g standard)
  • Stylus Construction: Nude square shank
  • Recommended Load Impedance: 47,000 ohms
  • Output: 4.0 mV (at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)
  • Channel Balance: 1.0 dB (1 kHz)
  • Stylus Shape: 2.2 x 0.12 mil MicroLine
  • Cantilever: Aluminum tapered pipe
  • Mount: 1/2"
  • Replacement Stylus: Part # VMN40ML
  • Coil Impedance: 2,700 ohms (1 kHz)
  • DC Resistance: 800 ohms
  • Load Capacitance: 100-200 pF
  • Coil Inductance: 460 mH (1 kHz)
  • Static Compliance: 40 x 10-6 cm/dyne
  • Dynamic Compliance: 10 x 10-6 cm/dyne (100 Hz)
  • Vertical Tracking Angle: 23°

Dimensions (Cartridge & Shell): 0.8125" (w) x 0.8.25" (h) x 2.4375" (d)

Weight (Cartridge & Shell): 16.8 g (0.6 oz)

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Customer Q&A

23 questions already asked

Q
Is the vm540ml/H compatible with a vintage Yamaha YP-511?
michael  Feb 24, 2025
1 answer
A
Greetings Mike. Thank you for your question. If you have the original S/J shaped tone arm on your Yamaha, this would be a perfect replacement headshell.
thomas  Feb 24, 2025 (Staff)
Q
Will this work with an AT-PL120 turntable?
chris  Jan 13, 2025
1 answer
A
Hey Chris, looking into that cartridge on your turntable, it looks like the cartridge used at that time was proprietary. It uses a Audio-Technica ATP-2 which appears to be the only cartridge that will work on that table, so you can only use that cartridge unfortunately. If you need a stylus swap, the only one that works will be a Audio-Technica ATP-N2 stylus.
red  Jan 13, 2025 (Staff)
Q
Will this cartridge and head shell be compatible with the Audio Technica AT-PL120? Not to be confused with the AT-LP120.
michael  Sep 13, 2024
1 answer
A
Greetings Mike. Thank you for your question. The AT PL120 uses a standard head shell that is replaceable. The VM540 ML/H would be a prefect upgrade.
thomas  Sep 14, 2024 (Staff)
Q
Would this work on a Sansui SR838 turntable?
edward  Feb 16, 2024
1 answer
A
Nice deck, Edward! Looking at the Sansui SR-838 it does come with what I will refer to as a "quick-change" tonearm, and the Audio-Technica VM540ML/H can be attached. You will need to reset your tonearm counterweight, and also re-adjust your anti-skate with the new cartridge/headshell. The Audio-Technica VM540ML/H has a fantastic sound and would provide a nice upgrade to an older or worn-out cartridge/stylus!
bo  Feb 16, 2024 (Staff)
Q
Would you recommend this or the Ortofon 2M blue?
tonio  Nov 30, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings Herman. Thanks for your question. I would have to recommend this AT VM540ML/H. We do not sell the Ortofon cartridges at the moment.
thomas  Nov 30, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Will this fit on the Technics SL-1200?
daniel  Mar 20, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings Daniel, and thank you for your question. There were a few different SL1200 models. We carried the SL 1200MK2, and the SL 1200M3D. Both use the standard size headshell which this VM450ML/H will fit. If your headshell is removable, it will fit your tonearm as well.
thomas  Mar 20, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Does this fit a vintage pioneer PL-707?
mando  Jan 18, 2023
1 answer
A
From the information we are able to find on your vintage Pioneer turntable this Audio-Technica cartridge would not fit that straight tonearm that you have but we have many other cartridges that may work and helpful advisors standing by at 800.324.9695 so please give us a call and we will get you taken care of.
arielle  Jan 18, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Will this be "plug-and-play" or will the cartridge need to be adjusted? I'm using it for a Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Turntable.
j.r.iii  Jan 04, 2023
1 answer
A
Though unlikely, it may be necessary to adjust the position of the cartridge to achieve perfect alignment. We currently carry an alignment tool, which I'll link below: www.crutchfield.com/p_252ALINDS2/item.html
zachary  Jan 04, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Can you get this cartridge mounted to the AT-HS 10 silver headshell, (instead of the black)?
rick  Dec 30, 2022
1 answer
A
That is an excellent question. It may be something we are able to special order for you. If you're interested please give us a call at 800.324.9695 and our friendly advisors can look into the availability for you!
arielle  Dec 30, 2022 (Staff)
Q
will a Audio-Technica VM540ML/H work well on a technics 1210gr?
ken  Dec 30, 2022
1 answer
A
Greetings Kenneth, and thank you for your question. The VM540ML/H is a recommended headshell/cartridge combo for the 1210GR.
thomas  Dec 30, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will this headshell fit my Audio Technica AT-LP120 turntable? Is it a good upgrade?
fred  Dec 26, 2022
1 answer
A
Yes, this headshell and cartridge are compatible with your turntable. The cartridge that comes with this headshell is a step up from the one that comes on the AT-LP120. The VM540ML Cartridge has a wider frequency response meaning you'll be able to hear even more detail and accuracy with that stylus.
allison  Dec 26, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Can use this on an AT-LP5X? Do I need to align it?
james e  Dec 18, 2022
1 answer
A
This could be used with the AT-LP5X. Alignment may be necessary.
zachary  Dec 18, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will this work on a Denon DP 400 TT ?
kim  Nov 18, 2022
1 answer
A
Greetings Kim, and thank you for your question. Yes the Audio Technica VM540ML/H is a universal headshell, Denon also uses a universal fit headshell on the DP400.
thomas  Nov 18, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will it work with the Music Hall Classic turntable? If so, will it need to be aligned once I receive it?
rodney  Oct 09, 2022
1 answer
A
That particular cartridge would not work with the Music Hall Classic turntable.
arielle  Oct 09, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will it work with the Music Hall Classic turntable? If so, will it need to be aligned once I receive it?
rodney  Oct 09, 2022
1 answer
A
This would not be usable with the Music Hall Classic. The Music Hall Classic relies on an angled headshell.
zachary  Oct 09, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will this fit a Technics SL3200?
jim  Aug 17, 2022
3 answers
A
As long as you have a bayonet mount it should fit. Not that you asked but it is a super cartridge! Highly recommend!
john  Aug 21, 2022
A
As long as your tone arm has a bayonet mount yes it will the cart sounds beautiful you'll be happy
fred c  Aug 20, 2022
A
Unfortunately we have not had a chance to test this cartridge/headshell combination on an SL3200. It is possible that one of our customers has and may be able to provide insight. Keep in mind that we have a 60-day return policy in the event that this does not work for your turntable.
zachary  Aug 20, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Will it fit https://www.crutchfield.com/p_033DP300F/Denon-DP-300F.html ?
stephen  Apr 20, 2022
2 answers
A
Hello, it did not fit my pro-ject debu carbon
enrique  Apr 20, 2022
A
I installed this cartridge on an Audio Technica 120XUSB and it fit like a glove and works great.
ronald  Apr 20, 2022
Q
THAT'S THE ONE FOR PLAY cd-4 QUALITY?
joseph  Jan 24, 2021
1 answer
A
I believe it is
brian  Feb 08, 2021
Q
THAT'S THE ONE PLAY cd-4?
joseph  Jan 24, 2021
1 answer
A
What are you on about?
dennis paul  Jan 25, 2021
Q
Will this fit my Pioneer PL-950?
mark  Oct 05, 2020
1 answer
A
We didn't carry the Pioneer PL-950 to have details on it. Given what I seen online in pictures that are supposed to be the PL-950 turntable, it should work. I recommend contacting an advisor using 1-800-324-9695 to discuss your turntable in greater detail to make sure what I found is correct.
jason  Oct 24, 2020 (Staff)
Q
Will this fit my Pioneer PL-950?
mark  Oct 05, 2020
Q
Will this fit on my Pioneer PLX-1000 without modification?
rob  May 27, 2020
3 answers
A
I have no idea Rob. Mine was pre mounted on a head shell, but it's the best cartridge I've ever had!
joseph  May 27, 2020
A
I don't know, I have a Audio-Technica turntable and it fit it with out modification.
john  May 27, 2020
A
I believe it will. However the Plx1000 is a dj turntable. The vm540ml/h is not intended to play records backwards, nor is it intended for scratching. if you just want to play records at home this would be fine. But not recommended for DJ use. You want an elliptical slylus for DJing. The vm540 is a microline.
troy  May 27, 2020
Q
is the vm540ml/H cartridge/headshell a good compliment to a Technics SL-1610 mk2 turntable?
ron  Jul 13, 2019
7 answers
A
I use mine an a Pioneer, but it should work on the technics as well.
troy  Jul 14, 2019
A
It is
steven  Jul 13, 2019
A
My answer is missing a word. It should be "very good definition":
david  Jul 13, 2019
A
I do not have listening experience with the Technics sl 1610 mk2, but I am enjoying it a lot with my Pioneer PLX-1000, which is another direct drive turntable not too different from the Technics. Maybe the extreme highs are just a touch bright compared to my Ortofon 2M blue (undecided which of the two I like better). To me it has very definition of details in recordings, but I have not listened to moving coil cartridges in the several thousand dollar range.
david  Jul 13, 2019
A
I think its a terrifc cartridge. Make sure you get high quality vinyls because it will pick up every sound.
carol  Jul 13, 2019
A
I don't know. Mine is mounted on a Technics SL-Q2 turntable and sounds amazing!
joseph  Jul 13, 2019
A
Check out Ortofon Blue
howard  Jul 13, 2019
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