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Nagaoka Nagaoka MP-500 Cartridge + Technics Headshell + Nagaoka AM-801/2 Fluid Package Phono Cartridge (MI) Selling my very special Nagaoka MP-500 package including;Nagaoka MP-500 Cartridge & Stylus - (as new < 1 hour use) Technics TYL0331 Genuine Headshell (as new) Nagaoka AM-801/2 Stylus Cleaning Fluid (new unopened) Purchased only 1 month ago here in Melbourne…I played the beginning of a couple of LPs to confirm its operation, which was perfect, and then stored, ready for a planned additional turntable project, which I’ve decided not to proceed with due to other commitments. All in pristine
The Nagaoka MP-500, a flagship MM cartridge that originally retailed new for around AUD2,000, is listed at AUD900 in unknown condition. That's ambitious against the local used market, where three recent comparable AUD listings show a median of AUD784, with the 25th percentile at AUD768 and 75th at AUD839—putting this squarely above the top end.
Before biting, verify stylus condition and play hours, as diamond wear on these high-end tips is the prime failure point after 500-1000 hours; also check for the original box, headshell leads, and any service history to avoid hidden cantilever issues common in 10+ year-old units.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Nagaoka, a Japanese precision manufacturer, traces its roots to 1940 when it began producing components for mechanical watches and clocks in Higashine, north of Tokyo. By 1947, the company had pivoted to turntable needles, leveraging its micro-fabrication expertise to specialize in analog audio technology. This heritage of high-precision engineering has positioned Nagaoka as a cornerstone of the global vinyl industry, supplying over 90% of the world's phono cartridge styli from its single factory.
The brand focuses exclusively on phono cartridges and replacement styli, with no diversification into amplifiers, speakers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables. Its flagship Moving Permalloy (MP) series, including entry-level models like the MP-110 and high-end options such as the MP-500, emphasizes in-house production of every component—from samarium cobalt magnets and diamond tips to coils and cantilevers. Complementary JT-series moving magnet designs and vinyl accessories round out a tightly curated lineup for analog playback.
Nagaoka holds a niche yet dominant market position as a mid-tier specialist revered by vinyl enthusiasts and professionals for its balanced sound, durability, and value. While not a household name among casual listeners, its technology powers many leading cartridge brands, earning "masterpiece" status for models like the legendary MP-110. This blend of reliability, precision, and performance makes it essential for discerning hi-fi buyers seeking authentic analog reproduction.
See all Nagaoka listings on RADAR.
