Nagaoka MP700

The Nagaoka MP700 is a moving magnet (MM) cartridge designed to be fitted to a turntable's tonearm. It stands out for its Ultra-Duralumin body, a material renowned for its rigidity and inertia, chosen to limit tonal colouration caused by unwanted vibrations.

The cantilever is made of hardened Boron and carries a Nude Micro Ridge stylus tip, a fine stylus geometry that tracks the groove of the vinyl more closely. The cartridge features a soft suspension that improves the velocity of the cantilever's movement and groove-tracking precision, an uncommon characteristic for an MM cartridge. The magnets are made of Permalloy. In terms of electrical data, the cartridge delivers an output level of 4 mV, with a channel separation of 30 dB and a frequency response of 20 to 27 kHz; it is designed for a load of 47 kOhms and 100 pF, with a compliance of 18 µm/mN. The recommended tracking force is 1.4 g, for a total weight of 8 g.

Design feature: the stylus is screwed onto the cartridge body rather than simply clipped in, which strengthens the rigidity of the cartridge/stylus assembly and limits unwanted vibrations. Replacing it requires the use of an Allen key. The square-shaped body also makes it easier to align on the headshell, although it does not have a captive nut, a choice that in return allows it to be fitted to certain compact headshells, such as those of the Thorens TD 160 or TD 166.

This cartridge is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts seeking precise and detailed playback, on a setup where the tonearm and turntable allow the qualities of a soft suspension and a Boron cantilever to be exploited. It will suit those wishing to upgrade from their original cartridge without switching to a moving coil cartridge.

When buying used, priority attention should be given to the condition of the stylus and the Nude Micro Ridge tip, the element most exposed to wear and whose replacement accounts for most of the cartridge's value. It is also advisable to check the condition of the cantilever suspension, whose flexibility can deteriorate over time or with prolonged storage, as well as the secure fitting of the screwed-in stylus to the body, which should remain firm and free of play.

A version fitted with a bayonet-mount headshell, compatible with SL1200 or SME, is available under reference MP-700H.