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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phono cartridge?
A phono cartridge is the component at the end of your turntable's tonearm that holds the stylus. As the stylus tracks the record groove, the cartridge converts those vibrations into an electrical signal your phono stage and amplifier turn into sound. Every Nagaoka model we carry at Vinyl Sound USA in Buffalo, NY is a moving magnet (MM) cartridge.
What is a moving magnet phono cartridge?
In a moving magnet cartridge, a small magnet attached to the stylus moves between fixed coils to generate the signal. The main practical benefit is a user replaceable stylus, so when the tip wears you can fit a new Nagaoka stylus instead of replacing the whole cartridge. The Nagaoka MP Series, JT-80 Series, and MP-MONO all use this design.
Does a Nagaoka phono cartridge require a phono preamp?
Yes. Like other moving magnet cartridges, Nagaoka MP and JT-80 cartridges output a low level signal that needs an MM phono stage, either built into your amplifier or receiver or as a separate phono preamp, before it reaches your main amplifier. If you are not sure what you have, the team at Vinyl Sound USA in Buffalo, NY can help you check.
How long does a phono cartridge last?
It depends mainly on the stylus. As a general guide, a stylus is good for several hundred to over a thousand hours of play before it should be inspected or replaced, with clean records and correct tracking force helping it last longer. Because Nagaoka cartridges are moving magnet, you can renew performance with a matching replacement stylus.
When should I replace my stylus, and which one do I need?
Replace the stylus when you hear a drop in clarity, increased distortion, or after it has reached the end of its rated hours. Each Nagaoka model uses its own matching stylus, for example the JN-P100 for the MP-100, the JN-P110 for the MP-110, the JN-P150 for the MP-150, the JN-P200 for the MP-200, the JN-P300 for the MP-300, the JN-P500 for the MP-500, and the JN-P700 for the MP-700. The JT-80 cartridges use the JTS-80BK and JTS-80LB, and the MP-MONO uses the JN-PMONO styli. Tell us your model and Vinyl Sound USA will match the correct stylus.
How do I install and align a Nagaoka cartridge?
The cartridge mounts to the tonearm headshell and is aligned with a protractor to set overhang and angle, then you set the correct tracking force and anti-skate for that model. If you prefer a simpler setup, several Nagaoka models are offered as cartridge and headshell combinations, such as the MP-110H, MP-200H, MP-300H, MP-500H, and MP-700H, which arrive pre-mounted and ready to fit a compatible tonearm. Nagaoka also offers the HSAL01 aluminum headshell if you want to fit a cartridge yourself.
Which Nagaoka cartridge should I choose?
It depends on your turntable and how far you want to take your system. The MP-100 is the accessible starting point, and the range steps up through the MP-110, MP-150, MP-200, MP-300, MP-500, and the flagship MP-700, with each level refining detail and tracking. The JT-80BK and JT-80LB add a distinctive finish within the MM lineup. Share your setup with Vinyl Sound USA and we will recommend the best fit.
Is the Nagaoka MP-500 easy to set up?
The MP-500 installs like other MM cartridges, mounting to the headshell and needing correct alignment and tracking force. For the easiest path, the MP-500H version comes already mounted on a headshell, so you can fit it to a compatible tonearm with less setup.
How do you keep a stylus clean?
Dust on the stylus dulls sound and can add wear to your records, so it helps to clean the tip gently before or after listening. The Nagaoka SBR01 stylus brush keeps any stylus tracking cleanly, and Nagaoka also offers record care items such as the CL-120 and WCL222 brushes, the CTW-SET1 wet cleaning set, SPW-01 cleaning water, the CLV-30 cloth, and anti-static inner sleeves to protect your collection.
Where can I buy Nagaoka cartridges in the United States?
Vinyl Sound USA is an authorized Nagaoka dealer based in Buffalo, NY, serving Western New York and shipping across the United States. Buying from an authorized dealer means you receive genuine Nagaoka cartridges, styli, and accessories.
