Nagaoka JT-80LB: Moving Magnet Phono Cartridge

Nagaoka JT-80LB: the gateway to the Jeweltone series

To celebrate its 80th anniversary, Nagaoka designed the Jeweltone series from scratch. The JT-80LB, recognizable by its lapis blue casing, is the entry-level model, designed to offer excellent value. Like the JT-80BK, it is a true moving magnet (MM) cartridge, the first entirely new generation from Nagaoka since the launch of its MP series nearly forty years ago. With its 5mV output, it connects to any MM phono input.

Sound signature and everyday use

The JT-80LB combines an aluminum alloy cantilever with a bonded 0.4 x 0.7 mil elliptical diamond stylus. This profile follows the groove's contours more closely than a conical stylus and reveals greater detail in the treble. Nagaoka describes its sound as full and powerful, with a wide bandwidth that energizes all musical styles. Its light tracking force, from 1.3 to 1.8 g, protects your records over repeated listening.

Key features of the Nagaoka JT-80LB

• Unique design: an entirely new MM cell, developed for the brand's anniversary.
• Elliptical stylus: thinner than a conical stylus, for more precise high notes and better groove tracking.
• 5mV output: a high level for an excellent signal/noise ratio with MM phono preamps.
• Respect for the discs: a support force of only 1.3 to 1.8 g.
• Simple maintenance: the JTS-80LB crew can be replaced by hand, without touching the cell settings.

Technical specifications of the Nagaoka JT-80LB

• Type: Moving magnet (MM) stereo cartridge
• Series: Jeweltone, 80th Anniversary Edition
• Tip: elliptical diamond, bonded, 0.4 x 0.7 mil
• Cantilever: aluminum alloy
• Output voltage: 5 mV (5 cm/s)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Channel separation: 23 dB (1 kHz)
• Channel balance: 1.5 dB max.
• Support force: 1.3 to 1.8 g
• Weight: 6.9 g
• Finish: Lapis blue crew
• Replacement diamond: Nagaoka JTS-80LB

For whom and with which turntables?

The JT-80LB is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts who want to replace their turntable's stock cartridge with a more vibrant and detailed model, all within a reasonable budget. It's particularly well-suited to entry-level and mid-range turntables and connects to the MM phono input of an amplifier or a dedicated preamp like the iFi Audio ZEN Phono 3.