Audio-Technica AT-VM740xML review

Audio-Technica is a cartridge manufacturing giant, so when the company overhauls one of its core moving magnet ranges, we can’t help but be interested.

The AT-VM740xML sits in the upper echelons of the new VMx range, which includes entry-level polymer-bodied models alongside premium die-cast aluminium options. There are mono variants too, though only available in the polymer housing.

Design

The Audio-Technica AT-VM740xML is the first rung metal-bodied option, with the difference between it and pricier siblings coming down to stylus profile and cantilever material. For example, the ’740xML uses a Nude Microlinear stylus profile with an aluminium cantilever, while the range-topping AT-VMx760xSL (£519 / $599 / AU$849) is specified with a Nude Special Line stylus profile and a boron cantilever.

A stylus profile has a big effect on the cartridge’s ability to track the record groove accurately, while the greater rigidity of boron aids the transmission of vibrational energy. Thankfully, the stylus assemblies are easily interchangeable, so it is possible to start with the AT-VM740xML and upgrade at a later date.

Audio-Technica is proud of the twin-coil per-channel generator system used in the VMx range, claiming it mirrors the structure of the original cutting lathe more accurately than the conventional alternative and improves efficiency.

Look inside the ’740xML’s metal housing, and you will find a central shield between the left and right channels to reduce crosstalk, which helps with stereo imaging and reduces distortion. The cartridge’s internal coils are now made of purer copper than that used on the previous generation VM series to improve performance.

A reduction of coil turns is said to aid dynamics, but this also results in a relatively low output of 3.2mV (1kHz, 5cm/sec). That output level isn’t anything to worry about though, as this Audio-Technica will play well with any moving magnet phono stage on the market.

Ease of set-up

This is an easy cartridge to fit. It has threaded holes in the body, so there is no messing around with small nuts when securing it to the headshell as before. Alignment is easy thanks to the ‘740xML’s multitude of straight edges.

Our testing is done with a Technics SL-1000R record player; its detachable headshell makes things even more painless.

The rest of our system is a Cyrus Phono Signature/PSX-R2 phono stage feeding a Burmester 088/911 MkIII amplifier and ATC SCM50 speakers. This high-end set-up isn’t typical of the kinds of systems that the AT-VM740xML will be used in, but it does a great job of putting a spotlight on the cartridge’s performance.

We also use a Cyrus 40 AMP with KEF LS50 Meta speakers to hear how the Audio-Technica responds in a more appropriate system context.

Our comparison cartridges are the Sumiko Rainier moving magnet (£129 / $199 / AU$299), Audio-Technica’s own AT-OC9XEN moving coil (£268 / $399 / AU$699) and the Nagaoka MP-200 moving magnet (£399 / $549 / AU$649).

Sound

Given a few days to bed in, the AT-VM740xML turns in great results. We play around with the tracking weight within the recommended 1.8-2.2g range and settle in the middle at 2.0g as the best compromise between tracking ability, tonal balance and general liveliness.

The AT-VM740xML isn’t the most exuberant or dynamic cartridge we’ve heard at this level, but it remains an engaging proposition nonetheless. As we work our way through a range of music that takes in Nitin Sawhney’s Human set, Holst’s Planets suite and The Boatman’s Call from Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, it becomes clear that this is a clear and well-balanced performer.

It sounds a little cleaner and more precise than the expressive Sumiko, tracking basslines with greater dexterity and grip. There is a decent amount of weight and authority at lower frequencies, and that helps to deliver the essential sense of menace in music such as Holst’s Mars well.

Moving up the frequency range, we admire the Audio-Technica cartridge’s clarity through the mids and its articulate way with vocals. Nick Cave sounds suitably gruff yet vulnerable during Into Your Arms, while the instrumental backdrop comes across as wonderfully cohesive, maintaining the song’s delicate momentum and melancholic feel.

Dynamics, particularly subtle shifts in intensity, are communicated well, and we like the way this cartridge renders the texture and tonal richness of instruments. It sounds understated and natural, making it easy for us to get lost in the music rather than think of the mechanics of hi-fi.

It helps that the tonal balance is even and avoids over-egging any specific part of the frequency range. Bass is powerful, taut and tuneful while the highs combine bite and refinement well. Feed the cartridge a poor record, and it won’t hide the fact, but equally the Audio-Technica won’t make a meal of things either.

Stereo imaging ability is equally pleasing. As we listen to the Holst suite, we can’t help but enjoy the focus and stability of the soundstage. It remains stable as the music becomes more demanding, which isn’t always a given.

Rhythmically, things are sure-footed rather than enthusiastic. There is a good sense of drive to the Nitin Sawhney set, along with the ability to tie things together so that the music’s message comes through clearly. Songs such as Fragile Wind hit hard emotionally and are delivered with the lightness of touch they deserve.

Pay more for something like the Nagaoka MP-200 and you will get even greater resolution and dynamic fluidity. The MP-200 is certainly a more subtle performer, particularly when it comes to dynamic shading. But, given that the AT-VM740xML comes in at around half the price, this is more an observation than a complaint.

By the standards of its direct peers, this cartridge is a capable all-rounder that is as informative and musically coherent as we’ve heard at this level.

Verdict

The AT-VM740xML is an accomplished design. It is easy to fit and unfussy in nature, while being sensibly priced. We think it will work without issue when partnered with any good sub-£1000 record player, and has a blend of attributes that will see it shine in most cases.

Add the easy upgrade path into the equation and the only logical conclusion is to recommend it highly.

Review published: 17th April 2026

SCORES

• Sound 5
• Build 5
• Compatibility 5

MORE:

Read our review of the Sumiko Rainier

Also consider the Nagaoka MP-200

Best cartridges: budget and premium options for your turntable