In the world of high-fidelity audio, turntables and cartridges play a crucial role in delivering exceptional sound reproduction. Among the numerous options available, the Audio Technica VM540ML and the Goldring 1042 are two highly regarded moving magnet (MM) cartridges that have garnered immense popularity among audiophiles. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences, strengths, and weaknesses of these two audiophile-grade cartridges, helping you make an informed decision for your vinyl playback system.

Design and Construction

The Audio Technica VM540ML features a lightweight aluminum cantilever and a MicroLine stylus, which is known for its precise tracking ability and extended frequency response. The Goldring 1042, on the other hand, boasts a more substantial construction with a carbon fiber cantilever and a Gyger II stylus, offering excellent rigidity and detail retrieval. Both cartridges exhibit meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Stylus Profile

The MicroLine stylus on the Audio Technica VM540ML has a narrower contact radius than a standard elliptical stylus, resulting in improved tracking accuracy and reduced distortion. This translates into a more accurate representation of the original recording, with less sibilance and enhanced clarity. The Goldring 1042’s Gyger II stylus features a similar narrow contact radius, but with a slightly different shape, providing exceptional tracking and detail retrieval, particularly in the high frequencies.

Frequency Response and Sound Signature

The Audio Technica VM540ML delivers a wide frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 27,000Hz, with a slight emphasis on the high frequencies. This results in a detailed and revealing sound with a lively and engaging character. The Goldring 1042 also offers a wide frequency response from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, but with a more balanced and neutral sound signature. It provides a natural and accurate representation of the music, with a well-defined bass, a clear midrange, and a smooth treble.

Tracking Ability

Both the Audio Technica VM540ML and the Goldring 1042 are known for their excellent tracking ability, enabling them to navigate complex passages with ease. The VM540ML’s MicroLine stylus provides superior tracking accuracy, minimizing distortion and sibilance, while the Goldring 1042’s Gyger II stylus offers exceptional detail retrieval and a wide dynamic range.

Compliance and VTA Sensitivity

The Audio Technica VM540ML has a medium compliance, making it suitable for a wide range of tonearms. It is relatively insensitive to vertical tracking angle (VTA), allowing for easier setup and alignment. The Goldring 1042, on the other hand, has a higher compliance and is more sensitive to VTA. It requires precise setup and adjustment to achieve optimal performance.

Channel Separation and Crosstalk

The Audio Technica VM540ML exhibits excellent channel separation and low crosstalk, ensuring a clear and well-defined stereo image. The Goldring 1042 also provides good channel separation and crosstalk rejection, but may not be as pronounced as the VM540ML in this regard.

Summary of Key Differences

Feature	Audio Technica VM540ML	Goldring 1042
—	—	—
Stylus Profile	MicroLine	Gyger II
Frequency Response	20Hz – 27,000Hz	20Hz – 20,000Hz
Sound Signature	Detailed, revealing, lively	Balanced, neutral, natural
Tracking Ability	Excellent	Excellent
Compliance	Medium	High
VTA Sensitivity	Relatively insensitive	Sensitive
Channel Separation	Excellent	Good

Summary: Choosing the Right Cartridge for Your Needs

Both the Audio Technica VM540ML and the Goldring 1042 are exceptional MM cartridges that offer distinct sonic characteristics and performance capabilities. The VM540ML excels in detail retrieval, tracking accuracy, and high-frequency extension, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a lively and engaging sound. The Goldring 1042, on the other hand, provides a more balanced and neutral sound signature, with excellent tracking ability and a wide dynamic range. It is well-suited for those who prioritize accuracy, naturalness, and a wide range of music genres. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges depends on your personal preferences and the specific qualities you are seeking in your vinyl playback system.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which cartridge has a narrower contact radius, the VM540ML or the 1042?
A: Both cartridges have a narrow contact radius, but the VM540ML’s MicroLine stylus has a slightly narrower radius than the 1042’s Gyger II stylus.

Q: Which cartridge is more compliant, the VM540ML or the 1042?
A: The 1042 has a higher compliance than the VM540ML, making it more suitable for low-mass tonearms.

Q: Which cartridge is more sensitive to VTA, the VM540ML or the 1042?
A: The 1042 is more sensitive to VTA than the VM540ML, requiring more precise setup and alignment.

Q: Which cartridge is more suitable for a wide range of music genres, the VM540ML or the 1042?
A: The 1042’s balanced and neutral sound signature makes it more versatile for a wider range of music genres than the VM540ML.

Q: Which cartridge has a higher price, the VM540ML or the 1042?
A: The 1042 typically has a higher price than the VM540ML, but pricing may vary depending on the retailer and availability.