The Best Cartridges & Styluses 2026

1. Denon DL-103R Moving Coil Cartridge

Denon DL-103R - phono cartridge

Key Features and Benefits: 16.5-micron round tip stylus Compliance 5 x 10-6 cm/dyne

2. Audio-Technica - Audio Technica VM740L Microline Nude Stereo Cartridge - Red

Audio Technica VM740L Microline Nude Stereo Cartridge

The VM740ML MicroLine® stylus cartridge is a premier 700 Series model in Audio-Technica’s new VM cartridge line – a line that harks back to A-T’s early days as a manufacturer primarily of high-end phono cartridges, while also incorporating today’s advanced technology. Like all VM cartridges, the VM740ML is equipped with dual magnets that are positioned to match the left and right channels in the stereo record groove for outstanding channel separation and extended frequency response. The cartridge’s MicroLine® stylus allows it to trace the record groove with incredible accuracy, resulting in nuanced audio reproduction that elliptical and conical styli simply can’t match. The stylus’s multilevel shape also wears better than other styli, while reducing the wear on your records. Includes mounting hardware. FeaturesVM dual magnet cartridge with MicroLine® stylusAluminum tapered cantileverParatoroidal coils improve generating efficiencyCenter shield plate between the left and right channels reduces crosstalkDie-cast aluminum alloy housing reduces vibration and adds a natural electrical shieldSpecifications- Frequency Response: 20-27,000 Hz- Channel Separation: 28 dB (1 kHz)- Vertical Tracking Force: 1.8-2.2 g (2.0 g standard)- Stylus Construction: Nude square shank- Recommended Load Impedance: 47,000 ohms- Output: 4.0 mV (at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)- Channel Balance: 1.0 dB (1 kHz)- Stylus Shape: 2.2 x 0.12 mil MicroLine- Cantilever: Aluminum tapered pipe- Mount: Half-inch- Replacement Stylus: VMN40ML- Coil Impedance: 2,700 ohms (1 kHz) - DC Resistance: 800 ohms - Load Capacitance: 100-200 pF - Coil Inductance: 460 mH (1 kHz) - Static Compliance: 40 x 10-6 cm/dyne - Dynamic Compliance: 10 x 10-6 cm/dyne (100 Hz) - Vertical Tracking Angle: 23° - Dimensions: 17.3 mm (0.7") H x 17.0 mm (0.7") W x 28.2 mm (1.1") D - Weight: 8.0 g (0.3 oz) - Accessories Included: Four cartridge installation screws (5 mm x 2, 10 mm x 2), two washers, two hexagon nuts, non-magnetic screwdriver, brush, lead wire set

3. 3 Pack Turntable Replacement Needles for Victrola Record Players - Red

Personal CD Player

Victrola 3 pack turntable replacement needles for Victrola VTA-65, VTA-67, VTA-204B, VSC-580BT record players. These high quality ceraming needles will work with all vinyl record sizes (33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM) and intallation is simple and effortless.

4. Sumiko - Black Pearl Moving Magnet Phonograph Cartridge - Black/Silver

Spherical stylus; diamond stylus tip material; 18 Hz - 27 kHz frequency response; alloy cantilever

Add new sound to your turntable with the Pro-Ject Black Pearl cartridge. Its moving magnet construction helps you get the most audio enjoyment from your vinyl.

5. Sumiko - Oyster Moving Magnet Phonograph Cartridge - Blue

Moving magnet cartridge design; spherical stylus; ideal for use in the vast array of entry-level performance turntables; 30Hz-20KHz frequency response; >25dB at 1kHz channel separation

Enjoy exceptional audio with this Sumiko moving magnet phonograph cartridge. It has a cantilever made of alloy for durability, and its bonded spherical stylus glides effortlessly over your vinyl albums.

6. Sumiko - Pearl Moving Magnet Phonograph Cartridge - Black/Gold

Moving magnet cartridge design; elliptical stylus; sophisticated generator; 12Hz-30KHz frequency response; >30dB at 1kHz channel separation

Relax with your vinyl collection by using this Sumiko moving magnet phonograph cartridge. Its bonded elliptical stylus garners the maximum information from your record's grooves while reducing wear.

7. Sumiko - Oyster Replacement Stylus - Blue

Oyster Replacement Stylus

8. Sumiko - Pearl Replacement Stylus - Gold

Pearl Replacement Stylus

9. Sumiko - Rainier MM Phono Cartidge - Black/White

Rainier introduces our latest range of Oysters, which raise the bar for what can be expected from reasonably-priced MM cartridges. Our resonance-optimized housing was developed & selected for the voicing that it lends. The resonance properties create a well-represented soundstage with fantastic clarity with an overlaying warmth. Impressively quiet while delivering impact, Rainier skillfully places instruments & vocals right where they belong. You can expect a broader, rounder soundstage than you previously thought attainable at this price.

10. Sumiko - Moonstone MM Phono Cartridge - Black/Red

The apex of our 3 new Oysters, Moonstone is dressed to impress. Further reducing moving-mass & output and topped off with our listen-tested 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical diamond, Moonstone transcribes sonic imagery with weight, richness, depth & sparkle. Texture is keenly realistic. The sonic image is suspended and well-controlled over a nearly-absent noise floor, providing fantastic clarity without etch nor confusion. Compatible with MM preamps and the vast majority of tonearms out there, Moonstone is a must-have for audiophiles on a budget.