420STR vs Audio-Technica ML170/OCC
The ML170/OCC's output is 4.0 mV against the 420STR's 5.0 mV. Both share cartridge type (MM).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
420STR
AcutexAnalogCartridgesDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$170
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the 420STR
The Acutex 420STR is a high-quality moving magnet phono cartridge from Acutex, a brand known for audiophile-grade cartridges. It features a low-mass tri-radial stylus design and is praised for its detailed yet smooth sound reproduction, with a deeper bass response and less harsh treble compared to similar cartridges like the Audio Technica AT90E. The 420STR is considered a top-tier model in the Acutex LPM series and is no longer manufactured, making it a sought-after vintage cartridge. It is noted for a sound quality that some describe as akin to a 4th or 5th generation copy of a master tape, with some loss of very small nuances but overall vivid clarity. Replacement styli are rare and the cartridge is typically found on the used market. It has a reputation for being in the top 15 cartridges by some enthusiasts and is valued for its musicality and resolution.
Specifications
Cartridge
Phono cartridge specifications
- Cartridge Type
- MM
- Output Voltage
- 5.0 mV
- Impedance
- 2700Ω
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions