10 Best Phono Cartridges 2026 in the United States

The Ortofon 2M Black LVB 250 is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge designed to fit most turntables, making it a versatile choice for vinyl enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the Nude Shibata diamond stylus paired with a boron cantilever, which helps deliver detailed and clear sound by closely following the grooves on your records. The cartridge uses a Multi Wall Carbon Nano Tubes (MWCNT) rubber suspension, which improves damping, meaning it reduces unwanted vibrations for cleaner audio. This cartridge offers a balanced output voltage typical of MM types, making it compatible with a wide range of phono preamps. It also has a replaceable stylus, which is helpful for long-term use without needing to replace the entire cartridge.

Users praise the 2M Black LVB 250 for accurate and rich sound quality, especially in mid and high frequencies, making it well-suited for those who want a high-fidelity listening experience without moving to the more delicate and expensive moving coil (MC) cartridges. On the downside, the 2M Black LVB 250 may require a slightly higher tracking force compared to some other MM cartridges, which means your turntable's tonearm needs to be properly adjusted to avoid record wear. Also, while it performs excellently in detail retrieval, some audiophiles might prefer the even finer nuance offered by MC cartridges at a higher cost.

This cartridge is a solid pick for vinyl lovers looking for a premium MM cartridge that balances performance and ease of use, especially if you want to upgrade from basic stock cartridges without overcomplicating setup.

The Nagaoka MP-500 is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge, well-regarded for delivering clear and warm sound quality, making it a solid choice for vinyl enthusiasts who want good audio without spending a fortune. Its stylus typically features a fine elliptical shape, which helps track grooves accurately and reduces wear on records.

This cartridge is known for moderate tracking force and compliance, meaning it works well with a variety of turntables without requiring complicated adjustments. Users appreciate its reliable output voltage, which provides a strong signal for most standard phono preamps. One potential downside is that this model has been available since 2013, so newer cartridges might offer more advanced stylus shapes or materials for slightly better sound fidelity.

For those seeking an affordable upgrade from basic cartridges or a dependable option for DJ setups, the Nagaoka MP-500 remains a respected choice that balances sound quality and ease of use.

The Ortofon 2M Red is a Moving Magnet (MM) phono cartridge, making it suitable for a wide range of turntables and a great choice for those looking to upgrade from stock cartridges. Its elliptical diamond stylus is designed to deliver precise sound reproduction, with an open and dynamic character and a slight touch of warmth that many users appreciate.

This cartridge also offers the ability to upgrade the stylus to an Ortofon 2M Blue, providing some future-proofing and the option to enhance sound quality further down the line. Its universal fit is a significant advantage, ensuring compatibility with most turntables, and its weight and size make it easy to install.

On the downside, the 2M Red may require a bit more tracking force compared to some high-end cartridges, which could lead to more wear on your records over time. Additionally, while it provides excellent sound quality for its price range, audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity might find it lacking compared to more expensive Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. The Ortofon 2M Red offers a compelling mix of performance, ease of use, and value for money, making it an excellent choice for both new vinyl enthusiasts and experienced listeners looking to enhance their audio experience.