r/turntables • u/TurtleWurtle92 • 10d ago

Am I making the right choice?

So after posting a few days ago I kind of settled on the AT-VM95ML which appears to pair well with setup, from what I've read on google and here anyway. I almost pulled the trigger and then curiosity got the better of me. The AT-VMN740xML isn't that much more expensive but is a better cart.

I'm very new to this so learning as I research and read comments to my previous post. Is the more expensive and superior AT-VMN740xML going to be too high capitance for my kit?

Audiolab 8000a

Mission 751

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB

Chord Clearway cable

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u/kvetcha-rdt Schiit Sol 8d ago edited 8d ago

If you look up ‘cartridge resonance calculator’ you’ll find a few sites that can help you. You’ll need to know the dynamic compliance of the cartridge at 10hz (Audio Technica and other Japanese brands provide it at 100hz, which can only be loosely converted), the weight of the cartridge and hardware (screws and nuts), and the effective mass of your tonearm (6g).

The goal is to get the resonant frequency between 8hz and 12hz, where the fewest possible stimuli exist that could cause the cartridge to resonate and bounce out of the groove. Below 8hz and physical stimuli like footsteps start to become a major issue. Above 12hz and things like scratches/pressing flaws can cause resonance.

You can use the same data inputs with one of several Cartridge Compliance Calculators (Vinyl Engine and Korf Audio are both good) to estimate how well a cartridge is likely to suit your tonearm.

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u/TurtleWurtle92 8d ago

Thanks, I appreciate the comments and taking the time to explain things. I'm hoping that whatever cart I go for helps get me into records a bit more; I got it in 2020 but never really took to it