Review on 🧡 Audio-Technica VM530EN Dual Moving Magnet Elliptical Stylus Stereo Turntable Cartridge in Vibrant Orange by Larry Blanco

I had a lot of experience with the VM540ML, so I decided to try EN as well. Not as detailed as a microline (yup), but the 530 retains a large soundstage and excellent separation. While the elliptical diamond picks up more noise, it also appears "more alive" than ML, which can feel a bit casual in presentation. This advantage is also evident when compared to the blue Ortofon 2M, which I think loses in direct competition with the 530, the blue one lacks the boost of the AT car and the sound is narrower too. The EN is well rounded, this is a fantastic general purpose cartridge that can really pick up speed when needed. As with the ML, there is no audible IGD or extra hiss on this car. That being said I can well imagine a person listening to 540ML and being shocked that they are listening to vinyl. If that's what you're after - maximum recovery - step into Microline form and you won't regret it. There's a very clear analog sound signature (and noise floor) here on EN, so you can't go wrong with the environment - but that's not necessarily a bad thing! Inexpensive sleeper in the AT line.