Audio Technica AT-ART1000X

Like its predecessor, the AT-ART1000X features a direct power system that places the dual moving coil directly above the stylus tip, ensuring that the audio quality does not suffer the negative effects normally introduced by the cantilever’s length and material type. Having the coils move in such close proximity to the stylus tip allows the cartridge to vividly render even the most subtle sonic details and provide unsurpassed transient response. The newly developed coils for this model are rectangular, however, not round, in order to position more of their surface area in the magnetic field. This enables the cartridge to more accurately reproduce strong modulations, resulting in improved output voltage and an expanded low-frequency range.

Each non-magnetic core coil is constructed of 20 μm (0.79 mil) diameter PCOCC (Pure Copper by Ohno Continuous Casting) wire handwound eight turns to create a 1.1 mm × 0.6 mm (0.043″ × 0.024″) rectangle. The coils are contained in ultra-thin 25 μm (0.98 mil) special film and placed in the tiny 0.5 mm (0.020″) gap of a powerful magnetic circuit, enabling each coil to generate an output voltage of 0.22 mV with a coil impedance of 3.5 Ω, despite having a non-magnetic core.

The AT-ART1000X retains the high-performance line contact stylus and solid boron cantilever from the previous model to ensure an extremely accurate reading of the record groove. The base that supports the specialized magnetic circuit and vibration system is made from titanium. This sturdy base is instrumental in providing consistent playback, and works in combination with the cartridge’s hard plastic cover and aluminum housing to disperse resonance that negatively affects the sound quality. A special coating protects the magnetic circuit from corrosion for stable performance throughout the life of the cartridge.

Finally, the body of this new model features threaded mounting holes, making the cartridge much easier to install. The included screws alone are enough to mount the cartridge to a headshell or integrated tonearm.

Please Note: AT-ART1000X’s stylus assembly is not field-replaceable, but Audio-Technica offers a fee-based Moving Coil Exchange Program to properly service your moving coil cartridge.