7 Best Phono Cartridge P Mounts 2026 in the United States

The Audio-Technica AT85EP Turntable Cartridge is an excellent choice for those using linear format P-mount turntables. Its elliptical stylus design (0.3 x 0.7 mil) enhances audio clarity, making it suitable for listeners who appreciate detailed sound reproduction. The unique dual moving magnet construction and para-toroidal coil design contribute to its impressive sonic clarity and wide channel separation, ensuring a rich listening experience.

One of the key strengths of this cartridge is its compatibility with various linear tracking turntables, which means it can easily replace or upgrade existing cartridges without brand limitations, thanks to the T4P plug-in connectors. This flexibility is ideal for users who may have different brands of turntables or are considering a switch in the future.

For those venturing into vinyl or looking to enhance their current setup, the AT85EP is an appealing option that balances quality and ease of use. It's particularly beneficial for casual listeners and audiophiles alike who want clarity and simplicity in installation. Keep in mind that for users with more advanced turntable systems or those seeking specialized cartridges, exploring other options might be worthwhile to fully meet specific audio needs.

The Audio-Technica AT81CP is a replacement phonograph cartridge equipped with a conical stylus, making it suitable for P-mount turntables. It’s designed to replace several models, ensuring compatibility and ease of use for those needing a straightforward cartridge replacement. The conical stylus type is known for its robustness and ability to handle worn records well, though it may not capture as much detail as some other stylus shapes. This makes it a good choice for casual listeners who want durability and reliability.

The bonded round shank construction contributes to its solid build quality. Weighing only 27.22 grams, it is lightweight and easy to handle during installation. With a high customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 1,200 reviews, it’s clear that many users are satisfied with its performance.

The AT81CP is an excellent choice for casual vinyl enthusiasts seeking a reliable and easy-to-install cartridge for their P-mount turntables.

The AT3472P phono cartridge is designed for P-mount T4P turntables and is recognized for its sound quality, performance, and value. Many turntable manufacturers have adopted this model due to its reliable performance. One of its main strengths is the aluminum alloy cantilever, which ensures accurate transmission of the record groove modulations, leading to superior sound reproduction. The cartridge showcases impressive tracking force, which is essential for maintaining consistent contact with the record groove, thereby reducing distortion and wear on both the stylus and the record itself.

Additionally, the frequency response is well-balanced, covering a broad range to ensure that all audio nuances are captured and reproduced faithfully. The output voltage is adequate, providing a strong signal that can be easily amplified without significant noise interference. Compliance, or the cartridge's ability to move with the record's grooves, is well-tuned, contributing to its high performance and sound quality.

Despite the later models like AT3482P and AT81CP attempting to emulate the AT3472P, they fell short mainly due to cost-saving measures that compromised some aspects of their performance. Made in Japan by Audio-Technica, this cartridge offers a blend of high-quality components and reliable manufacturing. However, it is important to note that while it excels in many areas, its compatibility with modern digital setups might be limited, and it is best suited for users who appreciate and maintain analog playback systems. The AT3472P is an excellent option for anyone looking to enhance their turntable's audio performance, particularly those who value traditional, high-quality sound reproduction.