The Audio Technica AT-ART1000 direct power stereo MC cartridge achieved a different level of sound quality expression through a novel structure with the generator coils placed just above the stylus tip. This follow-up model, the AT-ART1000X, takes the philosophy and design of the flagship AT-ART1000 cartridge to another level with a more refined direct power system that enables three-dimensional spatial expression—as evidenced by specification enhancements that even high-end audio purists will appreciate. Developed, and manufactured in Japan, utilizing cutting-edge materials and design elements, the AT-ART1000X delivers the ultimate listening experience to audiophiles around the world.
“Helping people feel the exhilaration that comes from listening to music.”
Audio-Technica craftsmanship began with this simple, resolute commitment.
We have passed down this philosophy throughout our history, starting in 1962 with our first product, the AT-1 MM stereo cartridge, and continuing with our expansion, including award-winning cartridges, microphones, and headphones.
Audio-Technica’s transducer and cartridge technologies are acclaimed both in Japan and worldwide not only for their engineering precision and audio quality but also for their ability to provide a heightened listening experience to many people.
In 2016, we announced the Audio-Technica Excellence products—those that represented the current pinnacle in our pursuit of an ever-changing purity of sound. Now, eight years later, we are embarking on a new endeavor.
Non-Magnetic Core MC with Direct Power System
Proprietary direct power system with generator coils just above the stylus tip
This cartridge adopts a direct power system developed to deliver an unparalleled listening environment for analog audio. Unlike the conventional system, which places the generator coils at the base of the cantilever, the direct power system suppresses the effects on audio quality caused by the cantilever’s length and material type. This enables the cartridge to vividly render even the most subtle sonic details for unsurpassed high-fidelity playback.
Enhanced generating efficiency and improved bass reproduction with newly developed rectangular coils
Compared with the round coils used in the AT-ART1000, the newly developed rectangular coils position a larger surface area of the coil into the magnetic field, increasing the Magnetic Flux.
When the record groove drives large movements of the Diamond tip, it results in an improved output voltage, but crucially lessens the “compression” effect on the low frequencies. The cartridge expertly handles strong modulations and reproduces them in a truly accurate manner due to the fact more surface area of the rectangular coil remains in the magnetic field compared to when using round coils. This allows for a larger change in magnetic flux for a given movement in the record groove, resulting in an improved output voltage. The audible frequency range of the bass is also expanded with huge realism and intensity, connecting you closer to the original audio recording.
Rich three-dimensional spatial expression provided by non-magnetic core coils
Non-magnetic materials are used for the coil cores. This structure helps provide instant transfer response for improved transients, and natural sound quality with exceptional low distortion—aspects at which non-magnetic core cartridges excel—for three-dimensional spatial expression.
PCOCC for the coil wire
Each non-magnetic core coil is constructed of 20 μm (0.79 mil) diameter PCOCC (Pure Copper by Ohno Continuous Casting) wire wound eight turns to create a 1.1 mm × 0.6 mm (0.043″ × 0.024″) rectangle. The coils are contained in ultra-thin 25 μm (0.98 mil) special film and placed in the tiny 0.5 mm (0.020″) gap of a powerful magnetic circuit, enabling each coil to generate an output voltage of 0.22 mV with a coil impedance of 3.5 Ω despite having a non-magnetic core.
Special line contact stylus tip and solid boron cantilever
The cartridge employs the special line contact stylus tip and solid boron cantilever used only in Audio-Technica’s finest cartridge models. These high-performance design elements increase the amount of information picked up from the record groove.
Threaded mounting holes for easy mounting to integrated tonearms
Unlike the AT-ART1000, the cartridge is provided with threaded body mounting holes. This makes mounting the cartridge to an integrated-type tonearm, on which the cartridge is directly mounted to the tip of the arm, incredibly easy. The cartridge can be directly fixed using only the included screws, making mounting to the tonearm easier and more secure for the end user.
Hybrid titanium, aluminum, and high-rigidity plastic body for dispersed resonance
The base that supports both the specialized magnetic circuit and the vibration system is made of machined titanium. Although titanium is hard and has excellent acoustic resonance, it requires a lot of effort and cost to machine, so this material is used only in Audio-Technica’s highest-end cartridge models. The housing is made of aluminum, and the cover is made of high-rigidity polymer. This combination of different materials disperses parasitic resonance that negatively affects sound quality. A new coating is also used to improve the corrosion resistance of the magnetic circuit, helping to maintain stable life-long performance.
Handmade in Japan
This flagship model is the result of more than 60 years’ worth of analog audio expertise. The ART1000X is handmade in Japan by highly skilled experts; every model is made with precision and devotion to analog audio. It is a delicate process requiring specialist tools, dedication, and patience, as every component is placed by hand before being thoroughly inspected and tested through both extensive electrical and analog procedures and audio playback.
Natural Wooden Case
A bespoke wooden case represents the natural beauty of Japan and is an extension of the ART1000X experience, as the wooden rings reflect the delicate grooves of a record. Every cartridge is delivered with a clear acrylic plate featuring a laser-engraved serial number to signify the dedication behind each model and the rarity of the product.
| Type | Direct power system, non-magnetic core coil (MC) type |
| Frequency response | 15 to 30,000 Hz |
| Output voltage | 0.22mV (1 kHz, 5cm/sec.) |
| Channel separation | 30 dB (1 kHz) |
| Output balance | 0.5 dB (1 kHz) |
| Tracking force | Refer to “Tracking force information” included in the box. |
| Coil impedance | 3.5 ohms (1 kHz) |
| DC resistance | 3.5 ohms |
| Recommended load impedance | ≥ 30 ohms (when head amplifier connected) |
| Coil inductance | ≤ 1 μH (1 kHz) |
| Static compliance | 20 x 10-6 cm/dyne |
| Dynamic compliance | 9 x 10-6 cm/dyne (100 Hz) |
| Stylus | Special line contact stylus |
| Stylus curvature radius | 1.5 x 0.28 mil |
| Cantilever | 0.26mm (0.010”) diameter solid boron |
| Vertical tracking angle | 19° |
| Dimensions | 17.3mm (0.68”) x 17.0mm (0.67”) x 25.5mm (1.0”) (H x W x D) |
| Threaded hole | M2.6 x 2 |
| Weight | 11 g (0.39 oz) |
| Accessories | Case (Wooden box)Non-magnetic screwdriverWasher x 2ProtectorCartridges installation screws (M2.6) (5.0mm x 2, 8.0mm x 2, 10.0mm x 2, 12.0mm x 2)Brush |