Nagaoka MP500 MM Cartridge

Nagaoka only makes moving magnet cartridges. Devotees of this technology value being able to replace the stylus themselves and doing without an MC preamplifier.

To satisfy demanding listeners, the manufacturer developed this new MP range. The Nagaoka MP500 cartridge is a worthy representative of it, clearly showcasing all the expertise of the Japanese maker.

Nagaoka MP500: features

The finish is fairly flashy but tasteful, and above all true to the brand's look. It reminds us of a handsome gold "Lego" brick.

The body is especially inert and rigid. Beyond a special treatment, it receives several carbon reinforcements that give it low resonance.

Worth noting: its square shape makes alignment on the headshell easier. The build quality is beyond reproach and matches the level of its competitors.

The only regret is that this Nagaoka MP500 has no captive nut to ease tightening and alignment. That said, if it did, it would be impossible to fit on certain headshells such as those of the Thorens TD 160 or TD 166.

As always, Nagaoka uses excellent, powerful Samarium/Cobalt magnets and coils wound with a very pure, very fine copper conductor.

Nagaoka MP500: stylus

The Super Fine Line Contact profile diamond is mounted on a Boron cantilever treated for greater rigidity and reduced vibration transmission.

A cantilever of this quality is rare in this price range.

Note that, to give the cartridge/stylus assembly excellent rigidity and limit vibration, the stylus is screwed onto the cartridge. Replacing it requires an Allen key.

Nagaoka MP500: matching

The 3 mV output level allows pairing with most quality integrated or standalone MM phono preamplifiers.

Also note that its high compliance (18) and low mass (8 g) let the Nagaoka MP500 be mounted on a wide range of low or medium effective mass tonearms (Thorens, Dual, Lenco, Garrard, Pro-Ject, Rega, Linn, SME arms, and more).

Nagaoka MP500: testing and listening

The first measurements reveal that we are dealing with an exceptional MM cartridge, surely one of the two or three best moving magnet (MM) designs on the market.

In fact, we see only one real rival: the Ortofon 2M Black. And it should be said that both cartridges outperform many "legendary" MC cartridges across numerous areas.

The listening is dynamic and lively, without ever lacking finesse or nuance, quite the opposite.

The midrange is both clear, with no sign of aggressiveness or fatigue, and well defined. Voices have a lovely timbre that gives them undeniable realism.

The treble is the finest in the range: smooth and informative. The bass is surprising in its energy, articulation and density.

The level of detail matches what the best high-output MC cartridges in this category deliver, though the soundstage seems slightly lacking in depth and width.

This Nagaoka MP500 MM cartridge can be considered one of the MM cartridge benchmarks, as the MP-50 was in its day. This MP-500 puts the manufacturer back in the spotlight and on the top step of the podium.

The most demanding music lovers won't complain.

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Nagaoka MP500 MM cartridge

What is special about the MP500's diamond and cantilever?

The Super Fine Line Contact diamond is encapsulated on a Boron cantilever treated for extra rigidity, and the stylus is screwed onto the cartridge (changed with an Allen key) for optimal rigidity of the cartridge/stylus assembly, which is rare in this price range.

Which tonearms is this cartridge compatible with?

Its high compliance (18) and low mass (8 g) allow it to be mounted on many low or medium effective-mass arms: Thorens, Dual, Lenco, Garrard, Pro-Ject, Rega, Linn or SME arms. See our guide on cartridges.

Where does it sit in the MM range?

It is one of the two or three best moving-magnet cartridges on the market, its main rival being the Ortofon 2M Black. Its level of detail competes with the best high-output MC cartridges in this category.

Can you change the stylus?

Yes, but since it is screwed on (for better rigidity), you need an Allen key to replace it.