Best cheapo Cartridge

Chakster

Google “Nakaogka MP-11 Boron”.
This was a step up from the standard MP-11.  The cartridge body is Black and says BORON in gold letters on the front and sides. 

The stylus also says MP-11 Boron,
so I am pretty certain that Nagaoka made one. 

Email me [email protected]  and I will send you photos. 

Norman

I have an old moving coil Denon 103, it’s a little dark for an MC, but the midrange is killer.

My other favorite is the Nagaoka MP-11 Boron, which to me sounds almost exactly like the Denon.  The MP-11 is MM.   I’m not sure they make it any longer however.

Everything Audio Technica makes sounds wonderful.  

N.

Chakster,

Someone mentioned that the 150 or 200 series has the Boron cantilever. This will fit any MP cartridge except the 500. 

Personally, I prefer the conical stylus from the MP-10 for my vintage jazz Micro-groove LPs. 

I dont think there is much if any difference between the cartridge bodies. Just the stylus type and cut along with variations to the cantilever.  This cartridge is super smooth, especially the highs. 
Its not expected at this price point which is why it was so popular years ago. 

Best
Norman

Chakster,

Because to me the conical stylus sounds better, that’s why.  But that’s just what I like.  Probably why I’m such a big fan of the Denon 103 and the Yamaha MC-11.  
 Nagaoka cartridges are overrated?  Hmmm.  Never heard that before.  What exactly is that based on?  The fact that you don’t like them?

For me, (which is what is important) I find them some of the finest sounding cartridges I’ve ever heard, with absolutely no listening fatigue, which is why I still use them.  

Nagaoka has built almost the exact same line of cartridges for over forty years.  Only  subtle changes have been made.  So clearly, they must be doing something right, as they are still enjoyed by many.

N.

  

iopscrl

I agree.  I still have a Shure V15III.  I have also found the Pickering XSV 3000 to an outstanding cartridge.  So many to choose from.  

N.