Custom-Made Cocobolo Wood Body for Audio-Technica VM520, VM540 Cartridge

Custom-Made Cocobolo Wood Body for Audio-Technica VM520, VM540 Cartridge

A cocobolo wood body for the Audio-Technica VM520, VM540 cartridge will add a rich, warm, and dynamic character to its sound, enhancing the natural strengths of this mid-level moving magnet cartridge. Cocobolo’s high density and natural oils help to reduce unwanted vibrations, improve resonance control, and bring out greater tonal complexity and depth.

🌳 About Cocobolo Wood

• Very dense and oily tropical hardwood from the rosewood family.

• Known for its luxurious appearance and excellent acoustic damping.

• Commonly used in high-end audio components for its tonal benefits.

🔊 Sound Characteristics of Cocobolo Body for Audio-Technica VM520:

🎧 Subjective Listening Impressions:

• The VM520 gains a more refined and polished sound, shedding some of the original plastic-bodied thinness.

• Highs become silky but remain detailed, reducing fatigue during long listening.

• The midrange blooms beautifully, making vocals and acoustic instruments more natural and engaging.

• Bass improves in weight and control, offering a more satisfying low end.

• Overall, the cartridge feels more musical, dynamic, and expressive with a cocobolo body.

✅ Best Use Case:

Choose a cocobolo wood body for VM520 if:

• You want to upgrade the sound quality of your VM520 without changing the stylus or cartridge.

• You prefer a warm, rich, and smooth tonal presentation.

• You listen mostly to jazz, classical, acoustic, and vocal music.

• You appreciate high-quality natural materials that enhance both sound and aesthetics.