Audio Technica AT-F3

Name: Audio Technica AT-F3
SKU: 49241
Price: 79.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

£79.00

1 in stock

8845

Audio-Technica AT-F3 Moving-Coil Cartridge – A2 Condition | Low-Output MC | Boxed | Tested by Andrew

The Audio-Technica AT-F3 is a classic low-output moving-coil cartridge from the Japanese manufacturer’s respected analogue range. Introduced during the 1980s, it was designed to bring the benefits of moving-coil technology to a more accessible price point, combining a lightweight body with an elliptical diamond stylus and Audio-Technica’s dual moving-coil generator.

The AT-F3 gained a favourable reputation among vinyl enthusiasts, with contemporary reviews praising its detail retrieval, stereo presentation and ability to convey musical dynamics. Its relatively low output requires a suitable moving-coil phono stage or step-up transformer rather than a conventional moving-magnet input.

This example is in A2 great overall condition, comes boxed, and has been checked and tested by Andrew.

Condition: Grade A2 – Great Overall Condition

The cartridge is in great overall condition, with only minor signs of previous use.

Supplied boxed.

Please refer to our photographs for a full assessment of cosmetic condition.

Key Features

Low-output moving-coil design – Uses Audio-Technica’s dual moving-coil generator for precise conversion of stylus movement into an electrical signal.
0.35mV nominal output – Designed for use with a compatible MC phono preamplifier or suitable step-up transformer.
Elliptical diamond stylus – Provides accurate groove tracing and retrieval of musical detail.
Lightweight 5g body – Suitable for a variety of compatible tonearms, subject to effective mass and resonance considerations.
Dual-coil stereo construction – Separate coil assemblies follow the stereo groove geometry, helping maintain channel separation.
Classic Japanese cartridge engineering – An established Audio-Technica design from the period when moving-coil cartridges were increasingly popular among serious vinyl listeners.
Boxed example – Supplied with its box, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts of vintage analogue equipment.

1 in stock

Categories: All Used Equipment, All z things vinyl, Used MC Cartridges, Classic & Vintage, Used z Brands, Used AT

Description

Description

Design Highlights

The AT-F3 represents an interesting stage in Audio-Technica’s moving-coil development. Rather than using moving magnets attached to the cantilever, the cartridge employs lightweight coils moving within a magnetic field. This arrangement was developed to reduce the moving mass of the generator and improve its response to changes in the record groove.

Its elliptical stylus provides a useful balance between groove tracing and practical alignment requirements. The aluminium cantilever and lightweight construction were intended to allow the stylus to respond accurately to musical information while maintaining controlled tracking.

Contemporary reviews of the original AT-F3 and subsequent OCC versions recognised the design’s lively presentation, good detail retrieval and stereo imaging. The AT-F3 remains an interesting option for listeners wanting to experience a traditional low-output MC cartridge.

Technical Specifications

Sources: Audio-Technica original AT-F3 documentation, Vinyl Engine, Audio Database and contemporary Hi-Fi Choice reviews.

Manufacturer: Audio-Technica
Model: AT-F3
Type: Low-output moving-coil cartridge
Generator: Dual moving-coil
Output voltage: 0.35mV at 1kHz, 5cm/sec
Frequency response: 15Hz–50kHz
Stylus: Elliptical diamond
Cantilever: Aluminium
Cartridge weight: 5.0g
Mounting: Standard half-inch
Channel balance: 1.5dB
Original AT-F3 tracking force: 1.5g according to archived documentation
Loading: Requires a suitable low-output MC phono input or step-up arrangement
Supplied: Cartridge and box

Moving-Coil Cartridge Note

Unlike most moving-magnet cartridges, the AT-F3 does not have a conventional user-replaceable stylus assembly. If replacement becomes necessary, the cartridge would generally require professional retipping or replacement.

The cartridge has been checked and tested by Andrew. As with any used phono cartridge, the stylus and cantilever should be handled carefully during installation, and correct tracking force, alignment and anti-skating are important.

A compatible low-output moving-coil phono stage is required. Connecting this cartridge directly to a standard MM input will generally result in insufficient output.

Why Buy From Us

With over 40 years of experience selling second-hand hi-fi, we understand the importance of accurately describing delicate analogue components.

This Audio-Technica AT-F3 has been checked and tested by Andrew, is offered in A2 condition and comes boxed.

Unlike buying through an unverified private listing on eBay, we provide clear descriptions, careful packaging and after-sales support by phone or email. Our usual 3-month guarantee applies unless otherwise stated.

Particular care is taken when packing cartridges to protect the stylus and cantilever during transport.

Summary

The Audio-Technica AT-F3 is a classic low-output moving-coil cartridge, offering an elliptical diamond stylus, lightweight construction and a well-established design from Audio-Technica’s analogue heritage.

This is one boxed Audio-Technica AT-F3 moving-coil cartridge, in A2 great overall condition, checked and tested by Andrew.

Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.