Cartridge shopping is often a mixed bag. Many companies make cartridges, and most try to convince you that theirs is the best cartridge in the market. You can also see many P mount cartridge reviews online that are not always accurate or objective.
Shopping for one without doing your research may leave you disappointed with your purchase later! It is essential to know what you are looking for and conduct research before buying any P Mount cartridge. The simplest way to find out which P Mount cartridge is best for you is by reading p mount cartridge reviews.
Let’s get started! This way, you can get a general idea of what people think about different brands and models. We’ve researched for you and found the top 20 best p mount cartridges on Amazon. These reviews will help guide your decision about which cartridge is right for you.
P Mount Cartridge Reviews 2023
GRADO Prestige Black3 Cartridge
The GRADO Prestige Black3 Cartridge is the latest cartridge from the prestigious Grado company. It possesses a twin magnet system that helps to provide improved performance over cartridges of the past. Additionally, it has a dampening technique that reduces vibrations and outer housing for even more sound clarity.
This cartridge connects with a standard mount and has four copper wires, which is interesting because most Grado cartridges connect to your turntable with two wires. The warranty for this product is applicable only in America as well! Overall, this is an excellent product from Grado.
It is slightly on the pricey side, but if you are willing to invest in a high-end cartridge, this one might be for you. This cartridge is excellent for listening to jazz, classical, and some female vocals. It has an excellent treble response and good clarity. There are no sonic problems with it at all.
It’s pretty easy to put on power-amp or pre-amp. It comes with an adapter for some turntables that don’t come with the standard size of the stylus. We like how it doesn’t require as much maintenance as other cartridges do, but we recommend cleaning it every time after listening to vinyl records.
Pros:
- Twin magnet system provides improved performance
- The dampening technique reduces vibrations and enhances sound clarity
- Four copper wires for superior signal transfer
Cons:
- Warranty applies only in America
- Expensive price tag
Phono Preamps DLC Cartridges
This Phono Preamp Cartridge is an excellent replacement for heavier cartridges like the Pickering cartridge. It was installed quickly and has not given us any issues since installation. We were able to adjust the tracking weight on the spindle to get it at the proper tension. It has never skipped or jumped.
We recommend the cartridge for anyone who wants to replace a heavy cartridge that is not designed for lighter tonearms like this one. The sound quality is good; it has an excellent, clean treble range and solid bass frequencies. If you like to listen to vocal and instrumental music, this is an ideal cartridge for you.
If your preamp has a standard mount, this one should fit the bill! It’s not as bright as some cartridges, but it sounds obvious regardless. The cartridge is also very easy to clean and does not require you to be an expert. It’s an excellent cartridge for the price.
Pros:
- Installed quickly and has not given us any issues since installation
- We were able to adjust the tracking weight on the spindle to get it at the right tension
- It has never skipped or jumped
- Recommended for anyone who wants to replace a heavy cartridge
- Great replacement for heavier cartridges
- Decent sound quality with a clean treble range and solid bass frequencies too
Cons:
- Not as bright as some cartridges, but it still sounds clear
Blucoil Audio Technica AT85EP Cartridge
We cannot express how much we loved this cartridge. Because it traces the groove of a vinyl record or LP very precisely, at even high frequencies, the cartridge produces high-quality music.
It boasts 20dB wide channels separation and a resonant frequency of 20Hz-20kHz, and it reproduces detailed sounds. This means you get a distortion-free sound from the cartridge. The cartridge works with plug-in connectors on Audio Technica, Pioneer, and Hitachi linear track turntables.
A Blucoil Audio Fiber Anti-Static Brush for Vinyl Records and an Audio Technica Dual Moving Cartridge of Elliptical Stylus P Mount are also included with the cartridge.
The cartridge has a very natural and transparent sound. It’s perfect for classical and pop music, but we would not recommend it for heavy metal listeners because the highs might be too bright for you. The cartridge is pretty easy to set up and sounds the best when you hold it right above your needle.
Pros:
- Great sound
- Clear and distortion-free
- Easy installation via T4P plug-in connectors on turntables by Audio Technica, Hitachi, and Pioneer
- Connects to any phono input of an audio amplifier or receiver
Cons:
- It is hard to know how good it is without hearing firsthand
- Only compatible with Audio Technica, Hitachi, and Pioneer linear tracking turntables
Audio-Technica AT85EP Cartridge
Another great Audio-Technica Cartridge is the AT85EP that provides a lot of different features. For one, this cartridge is explicitly designed to be used on linear form P-mount turntables. The AT85EP also comes with two moving magnets for excellent sound quality.
The para-toroidal coil construction also aids in retaining clarity and providing wide channel separation. This means that the Audio-Technica AT85EP indeed does offer a fantastic experience. No matter the brand, it’s also compatible with linear tracking turntables that have T4P plug-in connectors.
This cartridge does everything right. It’s an incredible upgrade from the typical P-mount cartridges that most turntables come with. The clear audio and wide channel separation enhance your entire listening experience. Plus, it looks great on our linear tracker! We have had no issues with it thus far.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use via T4P plug-in connectors on turntables by Audio Technica
- Made specifically for linear format P-mount turntables
- Provides an excellent sound quality, especially with wide channel separation and clear audio
- Looks great on linear trackers
- Compatible with almost all of the brands’ linear tracking turntables
Cons:
- Only compatible with T4P plug-in connectors
- Expensive
Audio-Technica AT81CP Cartridge
The Audio-Technica AT81CP Cartridge is an excellent cartridge that has a high-quality audio output. It is compatible with various models of the P-mount turntables and used as a replacement for multiple models such as the AT300P, AT3482, and so forth.
The Audio-Technica AT81CP Cartridge fits well to the desired round shaft and has a bonded construction that enhances the durability of the cartridge. The conical stylus of this cartridge plays music with accuracy and sings to perfection. It is a little challenging to set up.
However, the unit has an output of 0. 6 mil, which further enhances its signal strength.
It works well with various music genres and can yield accurate sound patterns that are defined well despite having low-end noise levels because it outputs high-resolution audio sounds without any interference from electrical hums.
The price of this cartridge is also low and can be afforded by any music enthusiast without burdening the purse just to buy a quality cartridge. Despite its low cost, it has the best features that make it highly competitive with other expensive cartridges out there.
Pros:
- It has a strong output
- Its construction is durable
- Affordable cartridge
- Plays well with various types of music genres and songs
Cons:
- It’s challenging to set up
- It does not have a fixed stylus, so it must be handled with care
P Mount Cartridge Benefits
P mount cartridges are phonograph cartridges designed to be used with the P mount system. The term “p-mount” was originally coined by Kenwood, and it refers to the shape of the mounting hole on the cartridge.
This type of phonograph cartridge has been around since 1952. Many people still prefer them over other styles such as universal or standard mounts because they offer excellent sound quality for their price point.
In addition, p-mounts come in various shapes and sizes, so you should have no trouble finding one to fit your turntable perfectly. It’s important to note that this type of record player doesn’t use a stylus but instead relies on a needle to play your records.
There are many reasons why people prefer p-mounts over other types of phonograph cartridges. For one, these record players have a reputation for offering excellent sound quality at low prices, so they are perfect for novice turntable users who aren’t sure if they will like the hobby or not.
Although you have to change the needle after several hours of use, it’s worth noting that this is true for all phonograph cartridges. Another great thing about p-mounts is that they are straightforward to install – you insert them into your turntable and then screw them in using the included screws.
Some turntables come with built-in preamps that will amplify the signal from your needle, but you can also buy a preamp separately and attach it to your turntable. Many people recommend the Project Pre box II+ as an inexpensive preamp option. In addition, p-mount s come in various shapes and sizes, so you should have no trouble finding one to fit your turntable perfectly.
P-mounts are fantastic cartridges that offer excellent sound quality for their price point. They’re straightforward to use and easy to install, so if you’ve never used a phonograph cartridge before or aren’t sure if you want to invest money in one, give these cartridges a try.
To sum up, p mount cartridge:
– Offers excellent sound quality.
– It’s easy to install a p mount cartridge for your turntable.
– They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so you will be able to find one that fits the specific needs of your turntable.
– Unlike universal mounts, p mount cartridges don’t require a stylus.
– The price of cartridges is low, so it’s perfect for novice turntable users.
Factors To Consider When Choosing P Mount Cartridge
Are you looking for a P mount cartridge that will work on your record player? You may be wondering which one would be the best. There are many different cartridges to choose from, and each has its pros and cons. Selecting the best p mount cartridge is not an easy task.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing one for your record player:
What Vinyl Records Do You Have
Before you can buy a cartridge, you need to know what kind of records you have. There are two main types of record players: belt-driven and direct-drive. Belt-driven players are typically cheaper, but they don’t play at the same speed as direct-drive players.
The speed, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute), varies depending on the type of record. Old records are typically played at 78 RPM, while newer records are 33 1/3 or 45 RPM.
What Is The Tone Arm
The tonearm plays a vital role in how your music sounds when it’s being played. It is a long arm that sticks out from the record player and holds the cartridge in place while it plays. A cueing device, usually a lever or button on the side of the tonearm, allows you to lift and lower it when switching records.
Do You Need An Integrated Or Separate Cartridge
Integrated cartridges are part of the tonearm. Separate cartridges are not built into tonearms so that you can replace or upgrade them. There are benefits to both types. An integrated cartridge is usually cheaper and easier to use, while separate cartridges offer more options for upgrades.
Some have better sound quality, which may be very important if you are an audiophile.
What Is The Mount Type
P mount cartridges are one of the most common types of turntable cartridges you’ll find at your local store or online. However, several variations need to be considered before choosing which one is best for you. All P mount cartridges have a standard 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) mount that will fit any player that uses this size.
This allows them to be easily replaced or upgraded.
Price Point
P mount cartridges come in various shapes and sizes, so you should be able to find one that fits your phonograph perfectly. Keep in mind that this type of cartridge does not use a stylus but instead relies on the needle.
This means that after several hours of use, you will need to change it; however, all types of phonograph cartridges require changing needles after time.
It’s important to note that p mounts offer excellent sound quality for their price point, making them perfect for novice turntable users who might decide they don’t like the hobby after buying an expensive cartridge.
Compatibility
Not all p mount cartridges are compatible with all turntables. You will need to make sure that this type of cartridge will work with your specific record player before purchasing. Fortunately, many p mounts come in various shapes and sizes, so you should be able to find one that fits your turntable perfectly.
Sound Quality
Listening to your records with a p mount should sound great without any harsh or rough frequencies. It’s worth noting that the p mount cartridge is just one part of the turntable system, so if you aren’t satisfied with your overall sound quality, then we would recommend buying a new phonograph as well.
Durability
P mounts come in all shapes and sizes, so you should be able to find one that is durable enough for your specific record player without spending too much money.
To help save money and time, we would recommend choosing a cartridge that comes with the stylus included because having to order one separately would be a big hassle.
Stylus Compatibility
The stylus on your phonograph is essential because it transmits the vibrations from your records onto the cartridge. To keep the needle working correctly, you will need to replace it following several hours of use; however, this is true for all cartridge types.
To sum up, choosing the best p mount cartridge is easier than it seems if you don’t mind spending a little bit of time doing your research.
You can do this by researching customer reviews to see what previous buyers think about the specific models you are considering; however, this will require looking through several different sites because there isn’t one place where you can find all this information in one place.
Once you’ve done your research, you will be able to make an informed purchase decision that meets the specific needs of your record player.
FAQs About P Mount Cartridge
– What’s the best way to research customer reviews about p mount cartridges before making a purchase?
The best way to research customer reviews about P Mount Cartridges before making a purchase is to read through the comments on different websites. Make sure you look at websites that sell the cartridge type you’re interested in because other companies will have different products.
– How do I know which one will work with my turntable?
To find out which type of cartridge will work with your specific turntable, you will need to look at the manual that came with it. If there are different types listed in the manual, it will be easy to find one that suits your needs.
Alternatively, suppose you are unsure about what type of cartridge is right for your record player. In that case, you can always ask a friend who has an identical model to yours or speak with someone in the electronics department at a store like Walmart.
– What should I do if I am not happy with the sound quality?
Whether you are using this as an addition to another phonograph or as your only model, you may need to purchase different equipment. For example, if you are unhappy with the sound quality because you don’t have a turntable, your best option would be to buy one.
– Does it matter what size I get?
No, but the size was a critical consideration in the past. The research of phonographs and turntables is that the needle on a turntable had to match the dimensions of a particular groove on an album’s disc.
In this way, records came out of production with predetermined stylus sizes made to properly play each type of vinyl without scratching or damaging it.
How big your stylus needs to depend entirely upon what size disc you are trying to play or whether you are playing mono LPs, which require different equipment than stereo LPS.
It’s worth noting that it would be impossible for one to guess what size needle they need by looking at their turntable, so careful measurements should always be taken before ordering equipment online.
– What is the difference between P-mount and standard mount?
P-mount cartridges are typically inserted into a slot at the back of your turntable, while the standard mounts require that you screw them onto the front end of your phonograph.
As for sound, it shouldn’t make much of a difference because both styles are designed to reduce the vibrations triggered when the needle is inserted to play music.
Conclusion
If you are looking to replace your p mount cartridge, you must take the time to research different types of cartridges. There are many options available, but not all will work with your turntable.
It’s worth noting that there isn’t one place where you can find all this information in one place, so careful measurements should always be taken before ordering equipment online.
Whether you’re using this as an addition to another phonograph or as your only model, you may need to purchase different equipment depending on what type of cartridge suits your needs best and how much quality sound matters for playing records.
We recommend purchasing a standard mount because they offer better performance than p mounts when used with other models like stereos-especially if you’re trying to play vinyl.