
( Brand: Audio-technica ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: AT404EP ), ( Type: Cartridge ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: Japan )
The Audio-Technica AT404EP is a high-performance P-mount phono cartridge, engineered to deliver exceptional sound quality for vinyl record enthusiasts. This stylus cartridge is part of Audio-Technica's respected line of phono cartridges, known for their accuracy, durability, and consistency.
The AT404EP features a lightweight and rigid aluminum cantilever, which reduces tracking distortion and provides excellent tracking ability. This cantilever supports a conical-shaped diamond stylus, which offers superior tracking in various record grooves and provides clear, detailed, and accurate sound reproduction.
The stylus tip is made of an advanced boron-infused diamond compound, ensuring long-lasting durability and exceptional tracking ability. The elliptical stylus design reduces distortion caused by record warps and irregularities, resulting in improved sound quality and enhanced musical detail.
The AT404EP comes with a low-mass aluminum body, which reduces the mass loading effect on the tonearm and enhances the cartridge's ability to track fine details and nuances. The body is also designed with a convenient screw-on mounting system, making it compatible with most standard turntables that use the P-mount configuration.
This stylus cartridge offers a wide frequency response range, spanning from 20Hz to 20kHz. The impedance is 47 ohms, and the recommended load impedance is 50 ohms, ensuring optimal performance when connected to an appropriate phono preamp.
The Audio-Technica AT404EP is a reliable and high-performance stylus cartridge for vinyl enthusiasts seeking accurate sound reproduction, durability, and excellent tracking ability. It's an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their turntable system and unlock the full potential of their vinyl records.
The Audio-Technica AT404EP is a p-mount phono cartridge designed for use with turntables. Here are some pros and cons that may help you decide if this cartridge is the right choice for your audio setup:
Pros:1. High-output design: With an output of 5 mV, the AT404EP is a high-output cartridge, making it a suitable choice for those with low-gain phono preamps or integrated amplifiers.
2. Durable construction: This cartridge features a rugged design with a boron cantilever and a conical stylus, ensuring long-lasting performance.
3. Wide frequency response: The AT404EP offers a wide frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz, providing a balanced and accurate sound reproduction.
4. Easy installation: The p-mount design of the cartridge makes it easy to install and set up, as it doesn't require any specialized tools or adjustments.
Cons:1. Not ideal for high-end systems: While the AT404EP is a reliable and capable cartridge, it may not be the best choice for high-end audio systems. It may not provide the same level of detail and clarity as more expensive cartridges.
2. Limited tracking ability: This cartridge has a relatively low tracking force requirement of 1.6-1.8 grams, which may limit its ability to track complex grooves and intricate recordings.
3. Not compatible with all turntables: The AT404EP is a p-mount cartridge, which may not be compatible with all turntables. If your turntable uses a different mounting system, such as S-mount or MM, you will need a different cartridge.
Conclusion:The Audio-Technica AT404EP is a reliable and durable p-mount phono cartridge that offers accurate sound reproduction and easy installation. It is a good choice for those with low-gain phono preamps or integrated amplifiers, as well as for those looking for a durable and long-lasting cartridge. However, it may not be suitable for high-end audio systems or for those seeking the highest level of detail and clarity.
Recommendation:If you are looking for a reliable and durable p-mount phono cartridge for your turntable and have a low-gain phono preamp or integrated amplifier, the Audio-Technica AT404EP is a good choice. However, if you have a high-end audio system or are seeking the highest level of detail and clarity, you may want to consider a more expensive and specialized cartridge.
Available is an Audio-Technica AT404EP P-mount cartridge that needs a stylus. Whats included is what pictured. It has been continuity tested as good.