Turntable Cartridges & Phono Cartridges

A turntable cartridge is one of the most important upgrades you can make to a vinyl playback system. The cartridge holds the stylus, tracks the record groove, and converts that movement into the signal your system amplifies. A better phono cartridge can improve clarity, tracking, stereo separation, bass response, and overall musical detail.

At Audio Exchange, we carry turntable cartridges for a wide range of systems, from affordable replacement cartridges for everyday record players to high-end phono cartridges for serious audiophile setups. Our selection includes moving magnet and moving coil designs from respected brands such as Ortofon, Audio-Technica, Hana, Grado, Denon, and more.

Moving Magnet (MM) Cartridges

Moving magnet cartridges are popular because they offer strong performance, wide compatibility, and simple maintenance. Most MM cartridges work with standard phono inputs, and many allow the stylus to be replaced without changing the entire cartridge. This makes MM cartridges a practical choice for many vinyl listeners, especially those upgrading from an entry-level cartridge or replacing a worn stylus assembly.

Moving Coil (MC) Cartridges

Moving coil cartridges are often chosen for higher-end vinyl systems because they can deliver excellent detail, speed, and resolution. Many MC phono cartridges have lower output than MM designs, so they usually require a compatible MC phono preamp, step-up transformer, or phono stage with enough gain and loading options. When properly matched, a moving coil cartridge can be a major upgrade for a revealing turntable system.

Better sound quality: Hear more detail, improved dynamics, and a more balanced presentation from your records.

Improved tracking: A well-matched cartridge and stylus can follow the record groove more accurately.

Lower distortion: Better cartridge design can reduce harshness, inner-groove distortion, and mistracking.

Record protection: A properly aligned cartridge with a healthy stylus helps reduce unnecessary record wear.

System matching: The right cartridge can better complement your tonearm, phono preamp, and speakers.

Upgrade flexibility: Many cartridge lines offer clear upgrade paths, making it easier to improve your system over time.