Cartridges & Styli
The cartridge and stylus read the groove, so they shape detail and record wear more than any other part. Upgrading them is one of the most effective improvements for an existing turntable.
Best Stylus Force Gauges (2026)
Stylus force gauges for setting tracking force: 0.01 g and 0.005 g digital scales, a simple Ortofon balance and a kit with protractor, compared by accuracy.
Best Cartridge Upgrade Kits (2026)
Compare the best cartridge upgrade kits for 2026. Learn how bundled cartridges and hardware make swapping to better sound simple.
Best Conical Styli (2026)
Explore the best conical styli for 2026. Learn how rugged spherical tips deliver dependable tracking for DJs and casual listeners.
Best Elliptical Styli (2026)
Find the best elliptical styli for 2026. Learn how a sharper dual-radius tip pulls more detail from your records than conical designs.
Best Phono Cartridge Mounting Hardware (2026)
Explore the best phono cartridge mounting hardware for 2026. Learn how screws, nuts, and washers secure your cartridge for clean setup.
Best Moving Magnet Cartridges (2026)
Explore the best moving magnet cartridges for 2026. Learn why MM designs offer easy setup, replaceable styli, and wide compatibility.
Best Moving Coil Cartridges (2026)
Find the best moving coil cartridges for 2026. Learn how low-mass MC designs chase detail and speed for dedicated vinyl listeners.
Best Replacement Styli (2026)
Compare the best replacement styli for 2026. Learn how to match a new stylus to your cartridge and refresh worn vinyl playback.
Best Headshells (2026)
Explore the best headshells for 2026. Learn how material, mass, and fit affect cartridge mounting, alignment, and tonearm balance.
Best Cartridge Alignment Tools (2026)
Find the best cartridge alignment tools for 2026. Learn how protractors and gauges dial in overhang, angle, and tracking for clean sound.
Best DJ Cartridges (2026)
Compare the best DJ cartridges for 2026. Learn how high output, strong tracking, and durable styli handle cueing and scratching.
How to choose
- Match the cartridge type to your tonearm and phono stage.
- Choose elliptical or line-contact styli for more detail.
- Replace worn styli before they damage records.
- Align the cartridge carefully with a protractor.
Common questions
When should I replace my turntable stylus?
Many styli last several hundred to about a thousand hours depending on shape and care. Replace sooner if you hear distortion or see visible wear.
Moving magnet or moving coil cartridge?
Moving magnet cartridges suit most setups, have higher output and often have replaceable styli. Moving coil needs a compatible phono stage.