Clearaudio N1 Moving Magnet Cartridge, Silver

The Clearaudio N1 is a moving magnet (MM) cartridge with an elliptical diamond on an aluminum cantilever – the entry point into Clearaudio's cartridge lineup, this version in silver.

An MM generates its voltage via moving magnets and delivers plenty of output level right out of the box. In concrete terms: the N1 runs on any standard MM phono input, no step-up transformer, no impedance tinkering. It's matched to the compact Clearaudio compass, but at 12.5 grams it also gets along with many other tonearms.

Why the N1?

The newly developed, anodized aluminum housing is rigid and cleanly balanced, leaving spurious resonances little to work with. The real trick is in the stylus: Clearaudio gives the N1 a Quick-Swap system that lets the stylus unit be changed even while it's mounted. That's an exception within the Clearaudio range – the larger V2 systems have to travel to the factory for a stylus change.

What you'll hear

Analog without fuss: clearly drawn voices, bass with real substance, and enough fine resolution that a well-pressed record sounds like a good record. 20 dB channel separation and 80 µm tracking ability are entry-level figures – the N1 focuses on musical flow rather than forensic detail.

Who is the N1 for?

For entry-level turntables, above all the Clearaudio compass, and for anyone who wants to replace a bundled system. Plain talk: if you're already listening with a decent moving coil on an MC stage, the N1 is a step backward. And if you're after more space and finer groove tracing, you need to step up within the range – that's where ebony bodies and finer stylus profiles make the difference. As an everyday cartridge, though, the N1 stays unbeatably relaxed.

Our verdict

Solid entry-level engineering with an extra rarely seen in this class: the replaceable stylus unit. Whether it's the N1, the compass, or a step up from there – tell us what you own and what you're listening for, and we'll sort it out for you at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil. It costs a phone call.

Technical data

• Type: Moving Magnet (MM), High Output
• Output voltage: approx. 2.9 mV (1 kHz / 5 cm/s)
• Stylus profile: elliptical
• Cantilever: aluminum
• Stylus unit: replaceable, Quick-Swap system
• Housing: anodized aluminum, silver
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Channel separation: 20 dB (1 kHz)
• Channel balance: ≤ 2 dB (1 kHz)
• Tracking ability: 80 µm
• Recommended tracking force: 2.2 g (± 0.3 g)
• Stylus compliance: 15 µm/mN
• Coil impedance: 0.66 kΩ (1 kHz)
• Coil inductance: 400 mH
• Load: 47 kΩ / 100 pF
• Weight: 12.5 g (± 0.2 g)
• Matching replacement stylus: Clearaudio N1 (MM016/EN)

Frequently asked questions

What phono stage does the N1 run on?

Any MM phono stage with 47 kΩ input impedance. With around 2.9 mV output voltage, the N1 is a classic high-output system – the phono input on your integrated amp or a simple phono box is enough. You don't need an MC input or a step-up transformer.

Can I change the N1's stylus myself?

Yes. The N1 is the only Clearaudio MM with a Quick-Swap stylus system; according to the manufacturer, the stylus unit can even be changed while mounted. The other Clearaudio MMs need to be sent in for that. Still, briefly check tracking force and fit after swapping.

What's the difference between silver and black?

Only the color of the anodized aluminum housing. Technically, both N1 versions are identical: same stylus, same cantilever, same measured values, same weight. So choose based on what looks right with your tonearm and headshell.

Does the N1 fit my tonearm?

Thanks to its standard mount, it fits a great many common tonearms. At 12.5 grams, though, it's one of the heavier systems, which can challenge very light arms. Tell us your turntable and arm, and we'll check the combination beforehand for you.

Why buy the N1 from HD Zürisee?

Because when you call us, you get someone who spins records themselves. We'll tell you honestly whether the N1 is the right step for your turntable, mount and adjust it properly on request, and handle warranty matters as an authorized Clearaudio dealer.

Goes well with

Matching electronics are available among our phono preamps, arms under tonearms and turntables among the turntables. Scales, brushes and templates are available under turntable accessories.