Ortofon Concorde MKII SCRATCH

The Concorde MKII SCRATCH represents the culmination of over a century of Danish expertise in phono cartridge design. Specifically developed for scratching and back-cueing, this cartridge delivers an exceptional output level of 10 mV, enabling turntablist DJs to achieve unprecedented performance thanks to remarkable tracking ability and powerful bass reproduction.

A Redesigned Build for the Demands of Modern Scratching

The MKII SCRATCH retains the signature fuselage-shaped design that has defined the Concorde range for decades. This new generation stands out with an ABS body available in white and black, featuring a reinforced, removable handling lever—a major innovation responding to feedback from professional DJs.

This detachable handle, thicker and more ergonomic than on previous models, comes in several colors. Its robust locking mechanism allows for quick replacement, eliminating the historical weak point of the Concorde. The stylus also benefits from a new metal spring mounting, offering better visibility and allowing for manual verification of the attachment.

Weighing 18.5 grams, the cartridge remains compatible with most tonearms on the market while incorporating a completely redesigned magnetic generator. This overhaul optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio and channel separation, ensuring exceptional clarity even during the most intense manipulations.

Advanced Technologies for Optimal Scratch Performance

The spherical stylus of the MKII SCRATCH preserves groove integrity during repeated scratching movements. This geometry maintains stability in the groove during abrupt changes of direction, minimizing unwanted skipping. The new-generation cantilever suspension system withstands extreme mechanical stress while maintaining optimal compliance with a recommended tracking force of 4 grams.

The frequency response of 20 Hz to 18,000 Hz is deliberately tailored to deliver energetic bass reproduction, essential for rhythmic impact. The highs, limited to 18 kHz, retain enough definition for vocal samples and percussive elements. This response curve reflects the priorities of turntablism rather than audiophile listening.

Performance and Durability at the Heart of Turntablism

The 10 mV output level is the MKII SCRATCH’s main asset. This feature reduces the gain requirements of the preamplifier, limiting background noise while ensuring a powerful signal even with worn vinyl. The superior tracking ability shines during advanced techniques—baby scratch, chirp, flare, or crab—maintaining stylus grip despite rapid accelerations.

Bass reproduction deserves special mention. In the DJ context, these frequencies carry the fundamental rhythmic energy. The MKII SCRATCH excels in this range, delivering deep, punchy bass that retains its impact at high volume—crucial for hip-hop, dubstep, or drum and bass.

Compatibility and Integration into the DJ Ecosystem

The Concorde format eliminates the need for a separate headshell, simplifying installation on any turntable equipped with a standard SME connector. One crucial aspect sets the MKII apart: total incompatibility of styli between MKI and MKII generations. This technological leap ensures optimal use of the improvements but requires the use of specific Stylus Scratch replacements.

The accessory ecosystem includes multicolored replacement handles, reinforced stylus guards, and aluminum flight cases for transport. This comprehensive range demonstrates Ortofon’s commitment to the professional DJ community.

Technical Specifications

Design and Construction

• New design
• Colors: white and black
• Removable and sturdy handling lever
• Improved diamond visibility
• Weight: 18.5 g

Audio Performance

• Ideal for turntable scratching
• Output level: 10 mV
• Frequency response: 20 - 18,000 Hz

Technical Specifications

• Tracking force: 3 - 5 g
• Recommended tracking force: 4 g
• Diamond type: spherical
• Replacement stylus (Stylus Scratch)