For over a century, Ortofon has been a key player in the world of high-fidelity sound reproduction, delivering premium phono cartridges that elevate the vinyl listening experience. Founded in 1918 by Danish engineers Axel Petersen and Arnold Poulsen, Ortofon has continually pushed the boundaries of sound accuracy, offering innovative technology and craftsmanship that has shaped the world of analog audio. Whether you're a casual listener or a dedicated audiophile, Ortofon's range of phono cartridges promises a sound experience that's rich, dynamic, and true to the original recording.

In this article, we'll explore the history, technology, and product lines of Ortofon, focusing on its acclaimed 2M Series, which offers everything from entry-level options to professional-grade cartridges. We'll also dive into some of Ortofon's other standout products, including the Cadenza Series and Concorde Series, all of which cater to different audiophile needs.

A Legacy of Innovation: Ortofon's Journey

Ortofon was originally founded as the Electrical Phono Film Company in 1918. The company's initial goal was to develop high-quality recording technology for sound films, but it soon expanded its focus to the development of phono cartridges and other audio equipment. Over the years, Ortofon's engineering prowess has led to a series of innovations that have defined the company as a leader in the audio industry.

One of the major breakthroughs came in 1948, with the introduction of the world’s first moving coil (MC) cartridge, which set new standards for sound accuracy. This was followed by a series of other technical innovations, including the development of the Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology in 2008, which revolutionized the way Ortofon manufactures its high-end phono cartridges.

The company’s headquarters in Denmark is strategically located in a country known for its strong tradition in acoustics and sound measurement, which has undoubtedly contributed to the brand's continued success and reputation for high-quality craftsmanship.

Ortofon Today

Today, Ortofon remains a micro-mechanical powerhouse, with a global presence. Its products are sold through a network of over 60 importers worldwide, including prominent markets such as the USA, Japan, and Europe. Ortofon maintains its reputation for quality by investing in cutting-edge technologies, materials, and industrial design, all of which reflect the company's commitment to innovation.

The company’s philosophy is simple: while maintaining its rich heritage, Ortofon constantly strives to introduce new technologies and refinements that improve the quality of sound reproduction. This dedication to excellence ensures that Ortofon products continue to be sought after by audiophiles, music lovers, and professional users alike.

The 2M Series: Precision and Performance for Every Listener

One of Ortofon’s most celebrated product lines is the 2M Series. This series is designed to provide a wide range of options to meet the needs of different listeners, from casual vinyl enthusiasts to discerning audiophiles. The 2M Series includes cartridges that utilize moving magnet (MM) technology, offering a balance of high fidelity, ease of use, and versatility.

2M Red: A Dynamic Entry-Level Option

The 2M Red is one of Ortofon's most popular entry-level cartridges. It is perfect for those who are new to the world of vinyl and looking to upgrade their turntable setup without breaking the bank. This cartridge delivers a dynamic, open sound that adds warmth to the music, making it ideal for a wide range of music genres, from rock to jazz and classical.

Key features of the 2M Red include:

• Type: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Sound Profile: Open, dynamic sound with slight warmth, suitable for beginners.
• Output: 5.5 mV for good sonic accuracy.
• Stylus: Equipped with a diamond-tipped stylus for enhanced tracking and improved sound quality.
• Compatibility: Universal fit for most common turntables, designed for easy installation and replacement.

The 2M Red offers a great starting point for those looking to explore the world of vinyl, offering good performance at an affordable price point.

2M Blue: A Step Up in Detail and Resolution

The 2M Blue takes the performance of the 2M Red to the next level, offering greater dynamics and enhanced resolution. It is ideal for users who want a more detailed and accurate sound without going into the high-end price bracket. The 2M Blue’s enhanced performance is partly due to its use of a nude elliptical stylus, which offers better tracking capabilities and superior high-frequency response compared to the bonded designs found in entry-level cartridges.

Key features of the 2M Blue include:

• Type: Enhanced version of the 2M Red
• Sound Profile: More dynamic and detailed sound, with better resolution across the frequency range.
• Output: 5.5 mV (optimized for better performance than the Red).
• Stylus: Nude elliptical stylus for improved tracking and detail retrieval.
• Technology: Incorporates split pole pin technology for improved frequency response and accuracy.

For audiophiles looking to upgrade from entry-level cartridges, the 2M Blue provides a noticeable improvement in sound quality, particularly in its ability to resolve fine details in music.

2M Bronze: Detail and Balance for Discerning Listeners

The 2M Bronze is designed for those who seek even greater accuracy and detail in their listening experience. Featuring Ortofon's Fine Line stylus, the 2M Bronze has a larger contact area than the elliptical stylus of the 2M Blue, resulting in better tracking and a gentler touch on the grooves of vinyl records. This design allows the cartridge to extract more detail from the record and enhances its ability to deliver clear and balanced sound.

Key features of the 2M Bronze include:

• Type: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Sound Profile: Clear, detailed, and balanced sound across all frequencies.
• Output: 5.0 mV (optimized for excellent sound fidelity).
• Stylus: Fine Line stylus for superior tracking and extended stylus life.
• Tracking Force: Recommended range of 1.4 to 1.7 g for flexibility in setup.

The 2M Bronze is perfect for audiophiles who want a high-quality cartridge that can capture every nuance of the music while providing a balanced, full-range listening experience.

2M Black: The Flagship of the 2M Series

The 2M Black is Ortofon's flagship model in the 2M Series and is considered by many to be one of the best MM cartridges available. It is aimed at audiophiles who demand the highest levels of accuracy, precision, and fidelity from their equipment. The 2M Black features a nude Shibata stylus, which is capable of reproducing an exceptional level of detail, particularly in the high-frequency range.

Key features of the 2M Black include:

• Type: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Sound Profile: Exceptional accuracy and sound fidelity, with a focus on capturing every detail.
• Output: 5.0 mV for precise sound reproduction.
• Stylus: Nude Shibata stylus, one of the best available for tracking high-frequency details.
• Technology: Advanced design with superior materials for the ultimate in sound clarity.

The 2M Black delivers a rich, full sound with remarkable clarity and precision, making it the ideal choice for audiophiles looking for the best possible vinyl listening experience.

2M Mono and 2M 78: Specialized Options for Vinyl Enthusiasts

For those who enjoy specific types of vinyl records, Ortofon offers two specialized models in the 2M Series: the 2M Mono and the 2M 78.

• The 2M Mono is designed for playing mono vinyl records, providing a focused and immersive listening experience for fans of classic mono recordings.
• The 2M 78 is tailored for playing 78 RPM records, offering enhanced tracking ability and improved sound quality for this unique format.

These models cater to niche needs within the vinyl community, ensuring that all listeners can experience their favorite music in the best possible way.

Other Notable Ortofon Series

Cadenza Series: High-End Moving Coil Cartridges

For the most discerning audiophiles, Ortofon’s Cadenza Series offers a range of moving coil (MC) cartridges designed for superior sound quality. The Cadenza Series is ideal for those who seek a more nuanced and high-fidelity sound reproduction. These cartridges are handcrafted with premium materials and utilize advanced technologies to deliver exceptional clarity, detail, and musicality.

Concorde Series: DJ-Friendly Performance

While Ortofon is known for its high-end audiophile cartridges, it also offers the Concorde Series, designed specifically for DJs. The Concorde cartridges are known for their rugged durability and excellent sound performance, making them ideal for both club environments and home setups. The unique design allows for easy mounting without the need for screws or wires, making it a favorite among DJs for convenience and performance.

Conclusion: A Century of Excellence

Ortofon’s commitment to precision engineering and sound excellence has made it one of the most trusted names in the world of vinyl audio. From the entry-level 2M Red to the flagship 2M Black, Ortofon offers a range of cartridges that can satisfy the needs of any listener, whether you're just starting your vinyl journey or are a seasoned audiophile seeking the highest fidelity possible.

As the company moves into its second century of innovation, Ortofon continues to push the boundaries of audio technology, ensuring that music lovers everywhere can enjoy the most authentic and captivating listening experiences.