Moving magnet (MM)

A moving magnet, or MM, cartridge generates its signal by attaching tiny magnets to the cantilever that vibrates near fixed coils inside the cartridge body as the stylus traces the groove. It is by far the most common cartridge type found on turntables sold today, from entry level models to many higher end designs.

MM cartridges produce a relatively high output signal, which most phono preamps and receivers are built to accept without extra gain, making them an easy, compatible default for most systems. Many MM cartridges also use a user-replaceable stylus assembly, so when the stylus eventually wears out it can often simply be swapped for a new one rather than requiring the entire cartridge to be replaced.

When buying, check that a replacement stylus is actually available for the specific model, since some cheaper cartridges use less common stylus profiles that become hard to source later. Compare stylus shape options too, since a better shaped stylus on the same cartridge body can noticeably improve detail. A common mix-up is assuming all cartridges are moving magnet by default, which matters because moving coil cartridges need a different, higher gain phono stage to work properly.