Well, I wouldn't necessarily agree with the $150 figure, but there are inherent drawbacks with a replaceable stylus assemembly. Vibrations of the smallest magnitude, such as high frequency detail, can be lost in the "sliding fit" of the replaceable stylus assembly, especially where the 2 sections of the cantilever/magnet tube fit together. Also they will always be heavier in the moving mass of the cantilever. This may not be critical if the cartridge is in a class where other carts have similar characteristics, or fit is exceptionally good. But, generally, you can get better results from a non-replaceable type. This is why the ultra cartridges are always sporting non-replaceable styli.
There are some benefits to replaceable styli also. The stylus is easily replaced without need to send it out for re-tipping. And with some cartridges, such as Goldring, the styli are interchangeable, so you can move up in the line, to the Gyger Line-contact types, without buying a whole new cartridge.
IMO, if you find a cart you like, at a price you like, and it has a replaceable stylus, don't worry about it. But if you are looking for a true high performance cart, then the non-replaceable stylus is the way to go.
There are some benefits to replaceable styli also. The stylus is easily replaced without need to send it out for re-tipping. And with some cartridges, such as Goldring, the styli are interchangeable, so you can move up in the line, to the Gyger Line-contact types, without buying a whole new cartridge.
IMO, if you find a cart you like, at a price you like, and it has a replaceable stylus, don't worry about it. But if you are looking for a true high performance cart, then the non-replaceable stylus is the way to go.