Thank you all for your replies. There's some interesting reading here for sure, that'll keep me occupied for a while.
I was curious about the various AT's and what they have to offer, based on my recent and limited experience.
Not too long ago I bought a Thorens TD166 MKII from these parts(shout out to anil, top chap) it came with an ADC Series 1 cartridge/stylus. I played it and thought, hmm ok nice. Then I came by a Shure M95ed original, used but still with some life. This time, wow that sounds really nice.
Next, I bought an ATVM95E from a local music store in Sydney for $60 just because of the good things I had read about it. Well, I set it up yesterday and listened to it last night and all I can say is crikey... for such an affordable cart it really was digging deep. Pleasing detail, some of which I couldn't hear with the Shure. I understand it is what it is for it's price point and there will be better, but holy moly it kept me very happy for the couple of hours listening last night.