Nagaoka MP500
Best high end cartridge for audiophiles seeking warm and detailed sound.
This top-tier moving magnet cartridge delivers exceptional clarity and detail, rivaling more complex setups. Its line-contact stylus and boron cantilever offer a neutral, balanced sound that brings out the best in vinyl collections without the setup headaches of moving-coil alternatives.
$699.00
at
Stereotimes
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution sound from their vinyl collection
- Listeners who prioritize a rich and fatigue-free sonic signature
- Collectors of vintage or complex pressings prone to tracking issues
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for the best value-to-performance ratio
- Impatient listeners wanting peak performance straight out of the box
- Owners of very low-mass tonearms requiring a more flexible suspension
Performance breakdown
High-frequency detail
The line-contact stylus extracts microscopic nuances from the record groove effortlessly.
Tracking precision
Boron cantilever ensures stable, accurate playback even on complex, demanding passages.
Tonal neutrality
Delivers a balanced, honest sound profile without artificial coloration or warmth.
Maintenance ease
User-replaceable stylus design simplifies long-term upkeep for dedicated vinyl listeners.
System compatibility
Standard moving magnet output integrates seamlessly with most existing phono stages.
Rhythmic engagement
Exceptional timing and pace make music feel lively and deeply immersive.
Key Specs
Type
Moving magnet
Stylus Type
Superfine line contact diamond
Cantilever Material
High-strength boron
Output Voltage
3mV
Frequency Response
20Hz-25kHz
Tracking Force Range
1.3 – 1.8 g
Weight
8 g
Recommended Loading
47k ohms
Break-in Period
30 hours
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Nagaoka MP500 before you decide.