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7 Best Phono Cartridge P Mounts 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Audio-Technica AT85EP Turntable Cartridge with Elliptical Stylus P Mount

The Audio-Technica AT85EP Turntable Cartridge is an excellent choice for those using linear format P-mount turntables. Its elliptical stylus design (0.3 x 0.7 mil) enhances audio clarity, making it suitable for listeners who appreciate detailed sound reproduction. The unique dual moving magnet construction and para-toroidal coil design contribute to its impressive sonic clarity and wide channel separation, ensuring a rich listening experience.

#2
9.6 score

Numark Groove Tool | Adjustable Cartridge & Replaceable Diamond Tipped Stylus, For Connection to Traditional Headshell Mounts

The Numark Groove Tool is an adjustable P-mount cartridge designed primarily for DJs and turntable enthusiasts looking for reliable performance. One of its standout features is its universal compatibility with traditional headshell mounts, making it a versatile option for various setups. The replaceable diamond-tipped stylus is a significant advantage, allowing users to maintain sound quality without needing to replace the entire cartridge. This is particularly appealing for mobile DJs or those frequently using their turntables in different environments, such as dance clubs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Stylus Type
The bright red stylus assembly with a center notch ensures high cuing visibility, especially useful in low-light DJ settings.
Tracking Force
The Groove Tool tracks slightly warped LPs to perfection and is highly durable, making it a reliable choice for professional use.
#3
9.3 score

LP Gear CFT4PSE P-mount cartridge

The LP Gear CFT4PSE P-mount cartridge stands out in the realm of phono cartridges, especially for those seeking enhanced sound quality from their turntables. Its use of carbon fiber technology allows for significant tonal complexity and depth, which should please audiophiles looking for a more nuanced listening experience. The Super Carbon Fiber cantilever contributes to its excellent tracking ability, effectively picking up details from records, making it a great choice for those who value accuracy in sound reproduction.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Tracking Force
Very good sonically for the price and a decent tracker at 1.5 grams, providing an enjoyable listening experience.
Frequency Response
Natural notes, pianos, voices, and crisp treble come through effortlessly, though low-range bass could be slightly better.

Top 7 Best Phono Cartridge P Mounts 2025 in the United States

Original AT3472P better than AT3482P AT81CP cartridge

Tracking Force: impressive force
Frequency Response: well-balanced, broad range
Output Voltage: strong signal
Compliance: well-tuned
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Buying Guide for the Best Phono Cartridge P Mounts

Choosing the right phono cartridge P-mount for your turntable is crucial for achieving the best sound quality and performance. A phono cartridge is the component that holds the stylus (needle) and converts the vibrations from the grooves of a vinyl record into an electrical signal. P-mount cartridges are designed for ease of installation and are typically used in turntables with a standardized P-mount tonearm. When selecting a phono cartridge, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure compatibility with your turntable and to match your listening preferences.
Stylus TypeThe stylus, or needle, is the part of the cartridge that makes contact with the record. Stylus types include conical, elliptical, and microline. Conical styli are the most basic and affordable, providing decent sound quality and durability. Elliptical styli offer improved tracking and sound quality, making them a good choice for most listeners. Microline styli provide the highest level of detail and accuracy, ideal for audiophiles seeking the best possible sound. Choose a stylus type based on your desired sound quality and how often you plan to use your turntable.
Tracking ForceTracking force refers to the downward pressure applied by the stylus on the record. It is measured in grams and affects both sound quality and record wear. A lower tracking force (1-2 grams) reduces record wear but may result in less stable tracking, while a higher tracking force (2-3 grams) provides better tracking stability but can increase record wear. For most users, a tracking force between 1.5 and 2.5 grams is ideal. Consider your turntable's specifications and your listening habits when selecting the appropriate tracking force.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response indicates the range of audio frequencies that the cartridge can reproduce, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response (e.g., 20Hz-20kHz) means the cartridge can reproduce a broader range of sounds, resulting in more detailed and accurate audio. For general listening, a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz is sufficient. Audiophiles may prefer cartridges with an extended frequency response for enhanced sound quality. Choose a frequency response that matches your listening preferences and the type of music you enjoy.
Output VoltageOutput voltage is the electrical signal strength produced by the cartridge, measured in millivolts (mV). Higher output voltage (4-6mV) provides a stronger signal, which can be beneficial for reducing noise and improving sound quality. Lower output voltage (2-4mV) may require a more sensitive phono preamp to achieve the desired volume. Consider your turntable and audio system's compatibility when selecting an output voltage. For most users, a cartridge with an output voltage of 4-5mV is a good balance between performance and compatibility.
ComplianceCompliance refers to the flexibility of the stylus suspension, affecting how well the stylus can track the grooves of a record. It is measured in compliance units (CU). High compliance (20-30 CU) is suitable for lightweight tonearms and provides better tracking of record grooves, while low compliance (5-10 CU) is better for heavier tonearms and offers more stability. Medium compliance (10-20 CU) is a versatile option that works well with most tonearms. Choose a compliance level that matches your turntable's tonearm specifications and your listening preferences.

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