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#40 of 64 Ortofon 2M Phono Cartridge (MM)
Ortofon · Ranked #40 of 64

Ortofon 2M Phono Cartridge (MM)

The Ortofon 2M is a dependable moving magnet cartridge that delivers a warm, balanced sound and hassle-free installation, making it an excellent entry point into higher-fidelity vinyl playback.

Preamp ExternalSetup ~18 min
4.4out of 5

Bench score

★★★★★

Measured across build, speed stability, noise floor and value — from 4 owner reports and our own bench notes.

◆ Our verdict

The Ortofon 2M is a dependable moving magnet cartridge that delivers a warm, balanced sound and hassle-free installation, making it an excellent entry point into higher-fidelity vinyl playback. While it doesn't match the resolution of Ortofon's premium models, it offers outstanding value and reliability for casual to serious listeners upgrading from stock cartridges.

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Specifications

Cartridge Type
Moving Magnet (MM)
Stylus Shape
Elliptical diamond
Output Voltage
5.5 mV
Tracking Force
1.5-2.0 grams
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
◎

On the bench

Wow & flutter
0.147%
S/N ratio
65 dB
Speed deviation
0.42%
Platter mass
1110 g

Wow & flutter measured W.R.M.S. at 33⅓ rpm; S/N ratio A-weighted. Lower wow & flutter and speed deviation are better; higher S/N is better.

⚖

Pros & cons

✓What we liked

  • Warm, musical sound signature suited to a wide range of genres
  • Easy setup with standard mounting and generous output voltage
  • Stylus can be replaced without swapping the whole cartridge
  • Good tracking ability even on slightly worn records
  • Solid build quality typical of Ortofon engineering

✕What we didn’t

  • Entry-level model lacks the micro-detail of higher-tier Ortofon lines
  • Plastic body feels less premium than metal-bodied alternatives
  • Requires careful alignment for optimal channel balance
  • Not ideal for extremely high-end systems seeking ultra-resolution
❝

What owners say

Marcus T.14 Feb 2024 ★★★★☆

Great upgrade from stock cartridge

Installed this on my entry-level turntable and the difference was night and day. Vocals sound clearer and bass has more punch. Setup was straightforward with the color-coded pins.

Elena R.02 Nov 2023 ★★★★☆

Solid performer, a bit bright

Sound is detailed and the elliptical stylus tracks well on older records. I found the highs slightly forward for my taste, but overall very satisfied.

David K.20 Jan 2024 ★★★★☆

Reliable and easy to replace

Been using this for over a year. When the stylus started wearing, I simply swapped in a replacement without buying a whole new cartridge. Convenient and cost-effective.

Priya S.15 Sep 2023 ★★★★☆

Good value for money

For the price point, this cartridge punches above its weight. Not the most refined at the very top end, but a huge step up from budget alternatives.

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