We still love records and anything that helps them sound better has got to be a good thing. There are very few cartridges that we haven’t listened to or set up, yet the Nagaoka models (Moving Permalloy = moving magnet), stand out as not just great value, but something special that offers a real generosity of sound and performance in all the aspects we see as being intrinsically analogue. Read all about the wonderful little Nagaoka moving magnet phono cartridges.
The MP-110 is easily our most popular cartridge. It’s based on the legendary MP-11 which I fitted to countless turntables. Wonderfully gusty and dynamic, it makes LPs come alive in a way that no other cartridge at this level can do.
The MP100 is a cheap and cheerful version of the ‘110 that is designed with older and more basic turntables in mind – perfect for when you just can’t get a replacement stylus as is the case more often than not – it will track with any tonearm and the stylus profile is very forgiving, tending to smooth out any nasties.
The MP-150 is a seriously good cartridge by any standards. You get a lot of sophistication over the MP110 – more detail yet a far smoother delivery, sweetness and a richer more balanced bass that has better definition and extension. The surface noise dissolves into the background leaving nuance that simply will not have been apparent before. Everything is in its place and the overall presentation is more relaxed. This is a cartridge you can listen to for side after side and never get fatigued.
Learn more about Nagaoka at Totally Wired.
