Audio-Technica ATN91R Replacement Conical Turntable Stylus for AT91R

I wrote a review on the CN5625AL a while back that praised it for the sound quality and how it punches way above its price point. Now that AT discontinued that model and introduced this one, I decided to try it out. The AT91R remains warmer sounding than most AT cartridges. AT carts are known for being bright or analytical; this has fans and detractors. In comparison to the older CN5625AL, the AT91R is more detailed. Not surprising since the stylus is finer (.6 vs .7 mil conical). But the area that this really shines is the bass. The definition and punch of the low end is very good, and it’s better than the CN5625AL. While this is $14 more expensive than the CN5625AL was back in 2016, it remains an absolute steal for a phono cartridge. The quality is higher, and it’s reasonable to expect a higher price tag with the continued popularity of vinyl. If you’re new to vinyl or just need something inexpensive, look no further. Even if you’re a hardcore vinyl listener and want something you can listen to without fear of damaging a $200 stylus, this is also s great choice.

I picked up a 1970's BSR McDonald 2260 AG from the thrift store for my dad and it worked but the needle and cartridge were absolutely worn out and sounded horrid. Not knowing the first thing about needle or cartridge replacement I scoured the internet and this looked like the closest fit from images alone. I knew Audio-Technica is renowned for their record equipment, it looked like it might fit with the screw pattern, and the description stating "...can be mounted on virtually any tonearm or headshell." sold me. It fit absolutely perfectly! I did have to squeeze the existing pushpins with a needle-nose plyer to make a nice tight fit, and the pin layout was opposite from the original. See the pictures for the correct hookup. When I placed the needle on the record it sounded absolutely stunning! Some additional tension adjustments on the record player itself, and it removed some other distortion (not because of the needle). Easy to install if you have a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, and a steady hand. When my dad wears out the stylus, it can be easily pulled off and replaced with a new Audio-Technica stylus.

I upgraded my Audio-Technica belt-driven turntable from the standard white cartridge to this red one. It was very easy to swap out, even for someone like me who is uncomfortable with turntable maintenance. The difference in sound was immediately noticeable. All of my records sounded clearer, brighter, deeper, and more detailed. What a cheap and easy way to significantly improve my audio equipment. I liked it so much that when I put together a stereo system for my in-laws I upgraded the stylus on their turntable to this same red Audio-Technica cartridge. It was a good upgrade.

I m sure if you are coming from the AT3600l, this 91R would be considered a good upgrade, providing they are both compatible to the same cartridge. I find this stylus a bit more open to the upper ends with a bit more details comparing to the 3600, but the bass is still too muddy, maybe some people prefer that kind of warm bass but I personally prefer the 95e better. The 95e is not compatible to the cartridge on 91r, and the 95e is elliptical rather than conical. But both stylus are around the same price range. The 95e to me sounds more accurate, reveals more details and a flatter bass response, which is more neutral sounding to me.

Worked well for my turntable

Yes, it did what is was supposed to do. Did not arrive bent of scratched... etc. Plays audio great on record player.

The needle came perfectly intact, the sound quality is excellent and worth the money if you’re wanting to upgrade from a needle that comes with the turntable.

Works great good replacement and easy to install