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 Sumiko Songbird Low Output Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridge is designed for vinyl enthusiasts looking to upgrade their turntable setup, especially in classical music systems that might sound lacking in excitement. As a Low Output MC cartridge, it delivers a delicate and detailed sound but requires a phono preamp that can handle low output levels. Its long 7-micron stylus face allows for precise tracking of grooves, which helps improve sound clarity and reduce distortion. The open-architecture design contributes to a refined audio experience, making it suitable for listeners who appreciate subtle musical nuances.

Because it has a low output voltage, it may need a compatible amplifier or step-up transformer to reach optimal volume and quality. Installation and matching with preamps may be somewhat challenging for users new to cartridges. The Songbird Low Output is a solid choice for audiophiles seeking a rich and detailed sound, especially for classical music lovers aiming to breathe new life into their vinyl collections.

The Audio-Technica VM540ML/H Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit offers a notable performance for vinyl enthusiasts. As a Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge, it provides easier compatibility with a wide range of phono preamps and headshells. The MicroLine stylus stands out in its ability to trace record grooves with high precision, yielding detailed and clear playback. This stylus shape is particularly adept at minimizing wear on records and enhancing longevity, which is a significant advantage for collectors and frequent listeners alike.

The aluminum cantilever contributes to the unit's durability and stability during playback. Additionally, the par toroidal coils are designed to improve generating efficiency, which can result in a clearer audio signal, while the center shield plate helps reduce crosstalk between channels, ensuring a more distinct stereo separation. The lightweight aluminum headshell, included in the combo kit, is an added convenience for users, offering straightforward setup and improved tracking accuracy.

As with any high-performance phono cartridge, the VM540ML/H requires careful setup and optimal tracking force adjustment, typically around 2.0 grams, to prevent unnecessary wear and to achieve the best sound quality. The compliance is suitable for most modern tonearms, but users with vintage or highly sensitive setups might need to verify compatibility. At an output voltage of around 4.0 mV, it provides a robust signal suitable for most phono inputs, though those seeking ultra-high output might find it slightly lacking. This cartridge combo is a solid choice for both casual and discerning listeners, offering a blend of high-fidelity playback, durability, and ease of use.