Which MM, MI, or Hi output...Nagaoka 300/500, Clearaudio Maestro, Soundsmith Carmen

I think the Nagaoka would be a good choice. It was my reference cart. at one time. I had a Soundsmith that was just above the Carmen. I preferred  the Nag. I also have had Clear Audio's MM designs, but felt they were a bit on the bright side. Just my opinion. 

Nagaoka is a great cart…it makes records sound like records, Many of these carts nowadays are too thin and sterile to my ears.

Like @mr_m Ive found found Clear audio MM to sound bright, thin. FWIW, I’m unimpressed with their lower tables too because, to me, they sound sterile like cheap cd players.

My 2. YMMV

I own the much vaunted Nagaoka cartridge, boring and dull, no life.

Much prefer the Soundsmith range to the Nagaoka's in a variety of arms.

I have not heard the Clearaudio.

I purchased some 78 styli for my Nagaoka's to play 78's - seems ok for that purpose.

@dover, 

I don't know what you did to your Nagaoka, but the last things I would call it would be boring, dull and lifeless.

I've got the Soundsmith cart. and the Nagaoka MP-200. Have had both for a long time in my system and I can tell you from my own experience that the Nag. will kick the crap out of that Soundsmith.

Now, I know what I said was my opinion, bur I feel you would have to go up to "The Voice" in the Soundsmith line to get a better cart. And in that case, I would opt for the Lyra Delos.