AT440MLa vs ML170/OCC
The ML170/OCC's tracking force is 1.3 g against the AT440MLa's 1.4 g and its channel separation 21 dB against 27 dB. Both share output (4.0 mV) and cartridge type (MM).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Audio-Technica AT440MLa is a high-performance dual moving magnet phono cartridge designed for audiophiles seeking precise and clear vinyl playback. It features a patented Dual Magnet design with a Paratoroidal generator coil circuit and uses PCOCC (Pure Copper by Ohno Continuous Casting process) in its coil and lead wires for enhanced signal purity. The cartridge employs a MicroLine-shaped diamond stylus tip, which provides better high frequency response with less wear and distortion compared to elliptical or conventional linear contact styli. The stylus has a very small curving rate, ensuring clear, non-distorted playback across the entire frequency range, including the inner grooves of records. The stylus cantilever is made of a tapered alloy tube for durability and accurate tracking. The cartridge is compatible with half-inch standard mounts and is not suitable for P-mount applications. It has a recommended tracking force of 1.0 to 1.8 grams, with an optimal force of 1.4 grams. The AT440MLa has been discontinued and replaced by the newer AT440MLb model.
Phono cartridge specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Components that show up alongside the AT440MLa in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The ML170/OCC's tracking force is 1.3 g against the AT440MLa's 1.4 g and its channel separation 21 dB against 27 dB. Both share output (4.0 mV) and cartridge type (MM).
The AT-VM95ML's output is 3.5 mV against the AT440MLa's 4.0 mV, its compliance 20 cu against 40 cu, its tracking force 2.0 g against 1.4 g, and its channel separation 23 dB against 27 dB.
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The AT15Sa's channel separation is 30 dB against the AT440MLa's 27 dB. Both share output (4.0 mV), compliance (40 cu), and tracking force (1.4 g).
The MP-50II's output is 3.0 mV against the AT440MLa's 4.0 mV and its tracking force 1.5 g against 1.4 g. Both share channel separation (27 dB) and cartridge type (MM).
Garrott Brothers Garrott Bros P77/SAS MM
Empire 1000 ZE/X
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