Nagaoka MP-500, what's your comment?

Sorry for not getting back sooner. I used 47k for resistive loading (not able to easily set 100k on my phono stage.). The midrange was the most appealing segment of the frequency range which was great for vocals. Spatially, there was a bit less definition in localizing sound (e.g. from different vocalists or instruments compared to higher end MC cartridges. As others have described, there was an aesthetic appeal and a rounded warmth to the sound that gave a nice musical presentation. My electronics (Spectral pre and amp) are capable of retrieving very fine detail, which in the case of the Nagaoka MP-500 were just not brought out or as well resolved as with higher end cartridges.

I tend to rotate cartridges once or twice a year, for variety. (I just have a single arm, Vector 4 on Basis 2500 turntable). It may be another 2 years before I get back to the Nagoaka. As the next MM, I hope to install my Shure V15xMR which is currently at Soundsmith for retipping.

Just on the off chance someone might still be looking at this thread...

Any update on how the Shure V15VxMR went in retipped Soundsmith version?

thanks

David

You'll find that all the Nagaoka cartridges sound pretty much the same, at least I do. I have three. They are very engaging, and throw a wide believable sound stage. They remind me quite a bit of my Denon 103. Not nearly as fast or dynamic as most cartridges today... the basic design is nearly 40 years old.. but a very rewarding listening experience. Nagaoka's are probably my favorite cartridges. Try an MP 11 (MP110) if you don't want to invest in the 500 and see if you like it. You might be pleasantly surprised. The Boron models are the sweetest.

For a MM cart that has MC-like ability to extract ambience and low level detail, and isn't extinct like the Shure V15VxMR (but has a similar if not identical stylus cut), I very much favor the Audio Technica AT150MLX. This is in current production, costs less than even the Nagaoka, and is the spiritual successor of those highly regarded Signet carts from the golden age of vinyl.

Could you describe in some details how this Audio Technica sounds ? How good are the dynamics, bass, overall coherence etc.? Do you think it is generally speaking better than Goldring 1042?
Would appreciate your thoughts.