Best Phono Cartridge Under $500 For True Audiophiles

Last Updated on March 15, 2023

For true, hardcore audiophiles who want nothing but the best, they will usually not settle for phono cartridge that cost less than $300. For the true audiophiles,  the cost of a product has a direct correlation to the quality of the product. While this may not be true for some items, it can be pretty telling for a phono cartridge. There are some that cost an airplane, but there are also others that cost below $500, hence it is not too costly for most people.

What is a Phono Cartridge?

A phono cartridge is a small device that contains a stylus, cantilever, and magnets, responsible for converting the mechanical movement of a stylus as it traces the grooves of a vinyl record into an electrical signal. The signal is then sent to a preamplifier, which amplifies the signal and sends it to your amplifier or receiver.

Why is a Good Phono Cartridge Important?

Having a good phono cartridge is essential for true audiophiles because it determines the quality of sound that you get from your turntable. A good phono cartridge can bring out the full potential of your vinyl records, providing a warm, rich, and detailed sound that can’t be replicated by digital audio.

Top Phono Cartridge Under $500

In all honesty, we managed to find a few phono cartriges that cost under $500, but most of them cannot perform up to our expectations, hence they aren’t worth the money. The top 3 that we have selected are simply power house in this price range, and they really standout in terms of quality of sound as well as the stability of the entire phono cartridge itself.

#1: Ortofon – 2M Bronze MM Phono Cartridge
#2: Sumiko – Blue Point 2 High Output MC Cartridge
#3: Audio-Technica AT150Sa Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge
#4: Nagaoka MP-110

Ortofon – 2M Bronze MM Phono Cartridge

Coming up tops in the arena of the best phono cartridge under $500 is the Ortofon – 2M Bronze MM Phono Cartridge. Being an MM phono cartridge, you can expect stability as well as durability in the entire construction itself.

What stands out, is the stylus itself. We all know the importance of a stylus, as it is the main instrument that tracks the grooves on the records, which in turns trigger the entire turntable’s mechanism to produce the sound. Hence, we will need a good stylus that is stable, and that is what we saw in this nude fine-line stylus. It is slim, and hence will be able to track high-frequency modulations. Due to the design of the stylus, you can also expect lesser distortion too.

If you have been following Ortofon’s designs, you will know that each iteration will mean they have improved on a certain feature of the phono cartridge. For the case of the 2M Bronze phono cartridge, it does have a flat frequency response due to spilt pole pins. All of these means that you will be able to have a smooth pickup, and hence producing sound of the best quality.

We like that Ortofon is able to produce such a baby! It is extremely precise in its design, such that every little detail is not spared. From the fine-line stylus to the perfectly balanced weight management system, you can expect a rich sound that is produced when using the Ortofon – 2M Bronze MM Phono Cartridge.

 

Sumiko – Blue Point 2 High Output MC Cartridge

A very popular brand for all things turntables, Sumiko has produced a gem in the Sumiko – Blue Point 2 High Output MC Cartridge. It does offer one of the best performance for a phono cartridge that cost less than $500!

This high output moving coil phono cartridge is loved by many due to the affordability as well as its ability to produce sounds that are sweet to the ears. It could catch the right frequencies and reproduce them with immaculate detail. Everything, from the tonality to the dynamics is perfectly articulate with this MC phono cartridge. The stylus itself is specifically designed, such that it sits lower in the grooves than other elliptical stylus. With this, it means the tracking of the sound is extremely accurate. The lightweight body is also designed to ensure

Let us take a look at some of the key stats of the Blue Point 2 phono cartridge.

This high output MC phono cartridge is highly regarded in the turntable world. It fits well into most tonearms due to its low weight, hence making it a perfect choice for many, especially those with a budget of less than $500!

 

Audio-Technica AT150Sa Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge

The Audio-Technica AT150Sa Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge has everything that you would want for a mid-range phono cartridge. From a good dual magnet cartridge to the Shibata Line stylus, it really hits you with an awesome, wide-ranging dynamic sound that will simply blast you away.

While it has a full-range audio system, it also has a good left/right channel separation ability. This means that the clarity of the sound is superb too. The Pcocc coil system helps to reduce noise as well as amplifying the efficiency of the entire phono cartridge itself. This technology is only available to the AT150SA.

What we like about the  Audio-Technica AT150Sa Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge is that there is the tapered aluminium cantilever that provides a rigid base to hold on to the stylus. This will ensure that the stylus has the best contact with the vinyl records at all times resulting in lesser vibration as well as paving the way for a clean sound!

Let us take a look at some of the key stats of the Audio-Technica AT150Sa Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge.

The specs might look ordinary, but it is indeed quite a high range phono cartridge but with a relatively low price, since it cost way below $500.

 

Nagaoka MP-110

The Nagaoka MP-110 is a moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge designed for use with turntables. It’s considered by many to be one of the best cartridges in its price range, and it has received many positive reviews from audiophiles and music lovers alike.

One of the standout features of the Nagaoka MP-110 is its excellent tracking ability. It has a tracking force range of 1.5-2.0 grams, which is pretty standard for an MM cartridge. However, the MP-110’s elliptical stylus and diamond tip are very well-designed, which allows it to track the grooves of records with exceptional accuracy. This means that the cartridge can extract more detail from your records, leading to a clearer and more precise sound.

Another strength of the Nagaoka MP-110 is its tonal balance. It has a warm, smooth sound that is well-suited to a wide range of music genres. The bass is tight and punchy, while the midrange and treble are clear and well-defined. Some users have noted that the MP-110 can sound a bit bright on certain recordings, but this is generally considered to be a minor issue.

The build quality of the Nagaoka MP-110 is also very good. The body is made from high-quality materials and feels solid and well-constructed. The cartridge is also very easy to install, which is a definite plus for anyone who isn’t particularly handy with turntable equipment.

Let us take a look at some of the key stats of the Nagaoka MP-110.

Overall, the Nagaoka MP-110 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality MM phono cartridge at a reasonable price. Its tracking ability, tonal balance, and build quality make it a great all-around cartridge that will work well with a wide range of turntables and music genres.

 

How to Choose the Best Phono Cartridge Under $500

When choosing a phono cartridge under $500, here are some factors to consider:

1. Stylus Type
   The stylus is the needle that tracks the grooves on the record, and it comes in different shapes and sizes. The most common types are elliptical, spherical, and Shibata. Elliptical and Shibata styli have a more precise contact with the record, resulting in better detail and clarity, while spherical styli have a wider contact area, providing a smoother sound.
2. Frequency Response
   Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a phono cartridge can reproduce accurately. Look for a cartridge with a flat frequency response, meaning it can reproduce all frequencies equally well. This ensures that you hear the full range of frequencies present in the music, from the deep bass to the crisp highs.
3. Channel Separation
   Channel separation refers to the degree to which the left and right channels of a stereo recording are kept separate. A high channel separation means that the left and right channels are kept distinct, resulting in a more natural and spacious sound. Look for a phono cartridge with a channel separation of at least 20dB.
4. Tracking Force
   Tracking force is the downward pressure that the stylus applies to the record. It’s important to set the tracking force correctly to avoid damaging the record or the stylus. Look for a phono cartridge with a recommended tracking force that’s compatible with your turntable.
5. Output Level
   Output level refers to the strength of the signal that the phono cartridge sends to the amplifier or receiver. Look for a phono cartridge with a high output level to ensure that the signal is strong enough to drive your system without needing to turn up the volume excessively.
6. Cartridge Type
   There are two main types of phono cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common and easier to find, while MC cartridges are generally more expensive and require a special phono preamp. MC cartridges are known for their higher resolution and detail, making them a popular choice among audiophiles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phono Cartridges

1. How often should I replace my phono cartridge?

   It’s recommended to replace your phono cartridge every 500-1000 hours of playing time or every 2-3 years, whichever comes first. However, this can vary depending on the type of stylus and the frequency of use.

2. Can I upgrade my phono cartridge?

   Yes, you can upgrade your phono cartridge to improve the sound quality of your turntable. However, make sure that the new cartridge is compatible with your turntable and that you set the correct tracking force.

3. Do I need a preamp for my phono cartridge?

   Yes, you will need a preamp for your phono cartridge to boost the signal and send it to your amplifier or receiver. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, but others require an external preamp.

Conclusion

Indeed, finding the best phono cartridge under $500 is not an easy task. We have reviewed some of the top performers in the market for your perusal. Note that when choosing a phono cartridge, you should always consider the stylus type, frequency response, channel separation, and tracking force. Remember to replace your phono cartridge every 500-1000 hours of playing time or every 2-3 years. Upgrading your phono cartridge is also an option, but make sure it’s compatible with your turntable and set the correct tracking force. With the right phono cartridge, you can enjoy the warm, rich, and detailed sound of vinyl records, taking your listening experience to the next level.