Cartridges Explained: What They Do, How They Differ, and How to Choose the Right One
The cartridge is the component that turns the physical movement of a record groove into an electrical signal your system can amplify. Despite its small size, it has a greater influence on sound quality than almost any other part of a turntable setup. This guide explains how cartridges work, the main types available, and how to choose the right one for your system and listening habits.
What is a turntable cartridge?
A turntable cartridge is the device mounted at the end of the tonearm that holds the stylus (needle). As the stylus traces the grooves of a vinyl record, the cartridge converts that physical movement into an electrical signal.
This signal is extremely small and must be amplified by a phono stage before it can be played through an amplifier and speakers.
Why cartridges matter so much
More than any other component in a turntable system, the cartridge defines the character of the sound. It affects clarity, tonal balance, detail retrieval, and how forgiving or revealing records sound.
Upgrading a cartridge often delivers a more noticeable improvement than upgrading the turntable itself.
How a cartridge works
Inside a cartridge, the stylus is attached to a cantilever. As the stylus moves within the record groove, the cantilever vibrates and generates an electrical signal using either magnets or coils.
The method used to generate this signal determines the cartridge type.
Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges
Moving Magnet cartridges use a small magnet attached to the cantilever, which moves between fixed coils.
Advantages of MM cartridges
- Affordable and widely available
- Stylus is usually replaceable
- Compatible with most phono stages
Disadvantages of MM cartridges
- Less detail retrieval than high-end designs
- Higher moving mass than MC designs
Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
Moving Coil cartridges attach tiny coils to the cantilever, which move within a magnetic field.
Advantages of MC cartridges
- Lower moving mass
- Greater detail and resolution
- More refined sound reproduction
Disadvantages of MC cartridges
- More expensive
- Stylus usually not user-replaceable
- Requires a compatible phono stage
High-output vs low-output cartridges
Cartridges vary in output voltage. High-output cartridges can work with standard MM phono inputs, while low-output cartridges require additional gain.
Low-output MC cartridges typically deliver the best performance but demand more careful system matching.
Stylus shapes explained
The stylus shape affects how accurately the cartridge tracks the record groove.
Common stylus profiles
- Conical: forgiving and affordable
- Elliptical: improved detail and tracking
- Line contact / MicroLine: maximum groove contact and detail
Cartridge compliance and tonearm matching
Compliance describes how flexible the cartridge suspension is. It must be matched to the tonearm’s mass for optimal performance.
Poor matching can lead to resonance issues, reduced tracking accuracy, and compromised sound.
How to choose the right cartridge
The best cartridge depends on your system, records, and listening priorities.
Choose based on:
- Your phono stage compatibility
- Your tonearm specifications
- Your listening preferences
- Your budget
When should you upgrade your cartridge?
Stylus wear typically occurs after 500–1,000 hours of use. Replacing or upgrading a cartridge at this point can restore clarity and protect your records.
Final thoughts
Cartridges are where mechanical motion becomes music. Understanding how they work and how they differ allows you to make informed choices that improve sound quality more than almost any other upgrade.