ADC QLM 32 Mk. II (1978–1984)

A whisper-light moving iron cartridge that asked for patience but repaid it with clarity—once you found the sweet spot

Specifications

Manufacturer	ADC
Weight	5,75 g
Principle	Induced Magnet (Moving Iron, Anschluss als MM)
Frequency response	15 - 18.000 Hz (±2 dB)
Channel separation	20 dB (1 kHz)
Stylus type	elliptisch (0,01 mm x 0,018 mm)
Needle type	elliptical (0.008 mm x 0.02 mm)
Recommended tracking force	2,0 - 4,0 p

Collectibility & Value

The ADC QLM 32 Mk. II trades quietly on the secondhand market, often slipping in under the radar of flashier moving magnets. One recent eBay listing showed the cartridge selling for EUR 84.50, a figure that seems to reflect its niche appeal and functional reliability rather than collector frenzy. Replacement styli are more accessible than you might expect for a 40-year-old design—aftermarket versions like the 1230-DE have been spotted at $23.42, while an original-spec compatible stylus (model 1231, listed under the QLM 33 MkIII) fetched $47.82. A used listing for a replacement stylus also appeared at EUR 21.90, suggesting a modest but persistent supply chain. There’s no evidence of rampant failure modes or chronic shortages, which keeps prices grounded. If you’re hunting one, condition matters—especially the stylus tip, which can’t be cleaned into redemption once worn.