Description
Audio-Technica AT33xMLB
MC Cartridge with MicroLine Stylus and Boron Cantilever
The AT33xMLB marks the fully revised generation of Audio-Technica’s acclaimed AT33 series. This redesign aims to bring out the sonic potential of both modern and classic pressings with greater detail resolution, more stable midrange imaging, and a controlled, confident bass performance. The AT33xMLB is tailored for discerning listeners who value precise soundstage, high-resolution detail, and a balanced tonal presentation—from delicate overtones to a powerful low-end foundation.
Design Focused on Resonance Control
For the first time in an AT33 model, a high-density zinc die-cast is used at the base of the cartridge. Combined with aluminum and a high-strength polymer, this multilayered body channels and disperses unwanted resonances. The result is a natural, balanced sound without frequency coloration, offering a stable soundstage and clearly defined structure across the mid and low ranges.
MicroLine Stylus on a Solid Boron Cantilever
The naked MicroLine stylus tracks the groove with exceptional precision. Compared to elliptical or conical tips, it delivers finer resolution, reduced distortion—especially in the inner grooves—and a clean, extended high-frequency response.
The conical boron cantilever provides high rigidity at low mass. It transfers even the smallest groove modulations quickly and with minimal loss to the generator system, ensuring precise transients and stable microdynamics, ideal for complex orchestral recordings or densely arranged productions.
Refined Suspension System
A newly developed damping mechanism using piano wire slightly reduces dynamic compliance and enhances tracking stability. This improves tonal weight and contour, particularly in the fundamental and bass range, without sacrificing openness. At the same time, the cartridge remains compatible with a wide variety of medium-mass tonearms.
Dual Moving Coil Generator with PCOCC Coils
The proven dual moving coil design features two independent PCOCC copper coils, one for each channel. This construction provides:
- Excellent channel separation
- Stable and coherent stereo imaging
- Clean, low-distortion signal transfer
A powerful neodymium magnet paired with a permendur yoke optimizes the magnetic field and increases generator efficiency for responsive, high-resolution playback.
Practical Details
- Threaded holes (M2.6) in the body for easy mounting
- Gold-plated connection pins to reduce contact resistance
- Two-stage anchor design for added cantilever stability
- Hand-assembled and finished in Japan
Note: The stylus is not user-replaceable. Audio-Technica offers a paid Moving Coil Exchange Program for professional maintenance.
Specifications
- Type: MC (Moving Coil)
- Output Voltage: 0.42 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s)
- Frequency Response: 20 – 45,000 Hz
- Channel Separation: 27 dB (1 kHz)
- Channel Balance: 1.0 dB (1 kHz)
- Recommended Load Impedance: ≥ 100 Ω
- Coil Impedance / DC Resistance: 12 Ω
- Inductance: 26 μH (1 kHz)
- Stylus Type: Naked MicroLine
- Tip Radius: 2.2 × 0.12 mil
- Cantilever: Boron, conical
- Tracking Force: 1.8 – 2.2 g (2.0 g recommended)
- Vertical Tracking Angle: 19°
- Static Compliance: 19 × 10⁻⁶ cm/Dyne
- Dynamic Compliance: 6 × 10⁻⁶ cm/Dyne (100 Hz)
- Weight: 10.1 g
- Dimensions (H × W × D): 16.0 × 16.6 × 26.1 mm
Included Accessories: Non-magnetic screwdriver, brush, washers, mounting screws (8 / 10 / 13 mm), protective cap
