Audio-Technica VM750SH Phono Cartridge

Audio-Technica VM750SH is a VM-type phono cartridge designed for vinyl playback. It uses a standard 1/2-inch mount with 12.7 mm between the screw centres and features a Shibata-profile stylus. Its 4.0 mV output signal must be sent to a phono stage with the appropriate load.

This model is intended for a system that allows the cartridge position and tracking force to be adjusted precisely. The cartridge weighs 8.0 g, so the turntable counterweight must be capable of balancing this weight. The body measures 17.3 mm high, 17.0 mm wide and 28.2 mm long.

Stylus and cantilever construction

The Shibata profile contacts a different area of the record groove from a conventional conical stylus. Because of this geometry, careful cartridge alignment in the headshell is important. An inaccurate position can alter how the stylus contacts the two groove walls.

The 0.26 × 2.7 mil stylus is a nude design with a square shank. It is fitted to a tapered aluminium pipe cantilever. This construction also determines which replacement stylus should be selected. The correct stylus for this model is the VMN50SH.

Installing the cartridge on a turntable

The cartridge uses a standard 1/2-inch mount with 12.7 mm between the screw centres. Two different screw lengths are supplied. Choose the 5 mm or 10 mm version according to the thickness of the headshell and the depth of the mounting area.

The package also includes two washers, two hexagon nuts and a non-magnetic screwdriver. The supplied lead set is used to connect the cartridge pins to the headshell leads. Connect the channels according to the terminal markings shown on the cartridge and turntable.

After securing the cartridge, align it in accordance with the turntable manufacturer’s instructions or by using a suitable alignment protractor. Tighten the screws evenly without disturbing the stylus position that has already been set.

Setting the tracking force

The specified tracking-force range is 1.8-2.2 g. The recommended starting setting is 2.0 g. Set the force only after balancing the tonearm and establishing the reference point on the counterweight scale.

Do not exceed the specified range in an attempt to compensate for poor alignment or a dirty record. Check the cartridge position, stylus cleanliness and tonearm balance first. The 23° vertical tracking angle is a design parameter of the cartridge.

Phono-stage loading

The recommended load resistance is 47,000 Ω, while the recommended load capacitance is 100-200 pF. Total capacitance includes both the phono-stage input and the signal cable. These figures help you select suitable phono-stage settings.

The cartridge coil impedance is 2,700 Ω, measured at 1 kHz. This must not be confused with the 47,000 Ω phono input load, as they are different electrical parameters within the signal chain.

The cartridge signal is not intended to be connected directly to a conventional line-level input. If the amplifier does not have a suitable phono input, an external phono stage is required between the turntable and amplifier.

Signal characteristics

The frequency response is 20-27,000 Hz. Channel separation of 30 dB at 1 kHz describes the separation between the left and right channels. The 1.0 dB channel balance specified at the same frequency indicates the relationship between their output levels.

Dynamic compliance is 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne at 100 Hz. When matching the cartridge to a tonearm, the effective mass of the arm must also be considered. Static compliance is 40 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne, so the static and dynamic values should not be treated as directly equivalent.

Care and stylus replacement

The supplied brush is intended for the regular removal of dust collected on the stylus. Clean it with light strokes in the direction followed by the stylus, without applying sideways pressure. The tonearm should be raised and secured before cleaning begins.

A worn stylus does not require the entire cartridge to be replaced. Use the model-specific VMN50SH replacement stylus. During replacement, take care not to damage the cantilever or touch the diamond tip with your fingers.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Will this cartridge fit my turntable?

Your turntable must have a standard 1/2-inch mount with 12.7 mm between the screw centres. Its tonearm counterweight must also be capable of balancing an 8.0 g cartridge.

Which phono-stage settings should I use?

Use a load resistance of 47,000 Ω and a total load capacitance of 100-200 pF. Remember that the cable contributes to the total capacitance.

What tracking force should I start with?

Start at 2.0 g. Make any adjustments only within the 1.8-2.2 g range and check the tonearm balance first.

Which mounting screws should I use?

Choose the 5 mm or 10 mm screws according to the thickness of the headshell. The screw must reach the nut securely.

Can it be used with a home cinema system?

Yes, provided that the home cinema amplifier has a suitably loaded phono input. Otherwise, use an external phono stage.

Which replacement stylus does it use?

The correct replacement is the VMN50SH stylus. This preserves the Shibata profile and cantilever construction specified for this model.

Do I need to buy leads and an installation tool separately?

No. The lead set, mounting hardware and non-magnetic screwdriver are included. A brush for stylus care is also supplied.