To my surprise those Nagaoka are all low compliance, why ?
Dynamic compliance for all models in MP series is:
from 5.5cu to 8.5cu @ 100Hz
I will convert it to 10Hz and this is it:
from 9.4 to 14.5cu, depends on the model
This is pretty low compliance for MM cartridge!
Also anyone should know that cheap models like Nagaoka PM-100 and PM-110 comes with BONDED diamonds, those diamonds are not "nude" like on higher models. I really don’t understand what is special about those entry level cartridges with Low Compliance, Bonded Diamond and Aluminum cantilevers ?
The life span of such bonded spherical or elliptical diamonds is very short, just look at description from Nagaoka (manufacturer):
" The stylus replacement interval varies depending on the using conditions. But for general use at home, the reference time is between 150-200 hours in which the stylus begin to wear and the tone quality deteriorates. Recommend replacing the stylus as early as possible to enjoy clear tone for a long time and not to damage the disc grooves. "
For MM/MI it is worth to look for mid or high compliance with nude diamonds only, at least Shibata or LineContact if you can find any at your price point. Some proper vintage MM will be much better than entry level new Nagaoka for sure.
Dynamic compliance for all models in MP series is:
from 5.5cu to 8.5cu @ 100Hz
I will convert it to 10Hz and this is it:
from 9.4 to 14.5cu, depends on the model
This is pretty low compliance for MM cartridge!
Also anyone should know that cheap models like Nagaoka PM-100 and PM-110 comes with BONDED diamonds, those diamonds are not "nude" like on higher models. I really don’t understand what is special about those entry level cartridges with Low Compliance, Bonded Diamond and Aluminum cantilevers ?
The life span of such bonded spherical or elliptical diamonds is very short, just look at description from Nagaoka (manufacturer):
" The stylus replacement interval varies depending on the using conditions. But for general use at home, the reference time is between 150-200 hours in which the stylus begin to wear and the tone quality deteriorates. Recommend replacing the stylus as early as possible to enjoy clear tone for a long time and not to damage the disc grooves. "
For MM/MI it is worth to look for mid or high compliance with nude diamonds only, at least Shibata or LineContact if you can find any at your price point. Some proper vintage MM will be much better than entry level new Nagaoka for sure.