(6 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5)
Loading...“Truly Amazing! I began with an RCA “Living Stereo” recording (LSP-2231) of Elvis Fever – nothing but vocals, bass and finger-snapping…” Read
Ortofon 2M Black Phono Cartridge
(6 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5)Loading...
The Ortofon 2M Black is a cartridge that has inspired a great deal of discussion in the audiophile community, and after spending some time with it, I’m ready to add my perspective. While it is undoubtedly a high-performance piece of equipment, it is not without its specific character.
The bass performance is the immediate standout—it is tight, muscular, and impressively extended. However, there is a slight “thinness” to the lower registers; while the notes are all there, they lack a bit of the organic body and rich texture found in more expensive alternatives. The mid-range is exceptionally transparent and offers a wonderful sense of air, though it continues that lean sonic trend. Thanks to the Shibata stylus, the high-end is incredibly extended. Be warned, though: even with minimal capacitance loading, the treble is very strong. On records that are already mastered “hot,” the sound can become practically un-listenable.
Technical Characteristics
Stylus Type: Nude Shibata
Frequency Range: 20-31,000 Hz
Tracking Force: 1.5 g (15 mN)
Output Voltage: 5 mV
Recommended Load Resistance: 47 kOhm
Internal Impedance: 1.2 kOhm
Comparison: 2M Black vs. Ortofon Red & Blue
When compared to its siblings, the 2M Black is a significant leap in precision but a departure in “forgiveness.” The Ortofon Red is an entry-level all-rounder that is much kinder to older or worn records due to its bonded elliptical tip. The Ortofon Blue offers a notable jump in clarity and dynamics with its nude elliptical stylus, serving as a great “sweet spot” for many. However, the Black moves into the realm of “Hi-Fi” clinical detail. Where the Red and Blue provide a punchy, musical experience, the Black provides surgical transparency. It lacks the mid-range body of the cheaper models but offers far more air and high-frequency detail—provided your records are pristine enough to handle it.
Final Verdict
The Ortofon 2M Black is a very good cartridge for the price, offering a modern “Hi-Fi” sound with incredible transparency. However, it lacks the delicacy and texturing of top-end Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. If you are looking to spend $800–$1,000, I would actually recommend looking for a high-quality used MC cartridge instead; you will simply get so much more in terms of body and detail.