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Audio-Technica AT120E

The Audio-Technica AT120E is a mid-range MM cartridge fitted with an elliptical stylus profile and rated at 5 mV output, so it suits any standard MM phono input. Its specified tracking force runs from 1.0 to 1.8 grams with a nominal setting of 1.4 grams. The stylus assembly is user replaceable and carries the designation ATN120E. Phono Culture lists 2 compatible replacement styli for this model.

Home Brand

Stylus: ATN120E
Type: ММ
Stylus Shape: Elliptical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.3×0.7 (≈7.6×17.8 µm) ]
Class: Mid-Range

Mounting: standard 1/2"
Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 6.5 g · 17.3 × 16.0 × 28.2 mm
Output Voltage: 5 mV
Frequency Response: 15–25 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 29 dB
Channel Balance: 1.0 dB (1 kHz)
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ
Tracking Force: 1.0–1.8 g (nominal 1.4 g)
VTA: 20°
Cantilever: alloy tube

Additional Info

The AT120E is a forgiving, easygoing MM with natural, warm vocals and solid dynamic punch. Bass has body without bloating the mix, and imaging stays stable though not razor-sharp, comfortable rather than analytical. The aluminium cantilever with an elliptical tip suits rock, jazz and vocal albums on modest to mid systems. The stylus is replaceable, which eases long-term upkeep.

Replacement styluses for Audio-Technica AT120E

Analogis	Black Diamond (AN4954)	Elliptical
Tonar	ATN120E	Elliptical

Sound × Setup

Detail

62%

IGD Control

58%

Noise Suppression

64%

Dynamics—Attack

68%

Soundstage/Imaging

65%

Bass Density

66%

Vocals/Midrange

72%

Forgiving Character

78%

Tonearm mass medium 44%

light 44%·heavy 11%

Capacitance up to 100 pF 60%

100-200 pF 30%·from 200 pF 10%

Phono gain 35–38 dB 50%

39–42 dB 50%·43–46 dB 0%

Audio-Technica AT120E (MM, вес 6.5 г, кантилевер алюминиевый трубчатый) хорошо подходит для лёгких тонармов — резонансная частота остаётся в норме на массах 8–18 г. Фонокорректор нужен с усилением 35–38 dB и входным сопротивлением 47 кΩ, желательна низкая ёмкость кабеля. Податливость не указана — расчёт по типичному значению 15 µm/mN для MM, оценка ориентировочная.

Collectors

add 11/12/2025 · upd. 08/02/2026