sonddek
Trade: SUPATRAC
Yeah, the VM95s are. You might have compared like for like - a VM520SH to the VM95SH (or E, ML, etc.).
I did. I compared the 95E with the 520E - very similar stylus/cantilever/suspension types if not identical. The VM520E is about £100 and I find it more enjoyable than any 95, even the expensive ones, so I am suggesting that for me the 500 range are the obvious option under £200. I suspect I would even prefer the conical VM510CB which is only £85. They are every bit as upgradeable as the 95s, have much better stereo separation, and the 540ML stylus has a very pretty tapered (lower mass) cantilever which the 95ML lacks.
The stylus upgradability of both series is excellent, but the 500s are just a much better cartridge body, to my ear.
Although it has been many years since I listened to a Goldring 2500, by memory I suspect the Goldring 2000s have more in common with the AT 500s than with the AT 95s.