Ortofon Concorde MKII TWIN mix
Overview
The Concorde MKII TWIN MIX marks a new chapter in the history of Ortofon’s best-selling DJ cartridge. This set of two cartridges continues a tradition that began in 1979, while incorporating substantial improvements designed for today’s DJs. Engineered for scratching and back-cueing, it stands out for its robust construction, durable spherical stylus, and its ability to stay in the groove under all usage conditions.
A Redesigned Concept for Today’s DJing Demands
The MKII series represents a complete overhaul of the original Concorde. The body now features a two-tone black and green finish, with an enlarged grip area for easier handling. The removable textured handle can be taken off for cleaning or replaced if worn.
The spherical diamond has been optimized with a wider cut around the tip, improving visibility of the contact point with the vinyl for more precise cueing. The stylus mounting provides tactile feedback upon insertion, ensuring correct assembly.
The 18.5-gram weight ensures compatibility with the majority of DJ tonearms. The direct-mount system for SME/Universal arms eliminates the need for screws or wiring, preserving the simplicity that made the Concorde so successful.
Technical Features Calibrated for Versatility
The 6 mV output level sits in a middle range suitable for most DJ phono preamps. This value offers a compromise between sufficient signal and headroom for gain adjustments.
The frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz covers the entire audible spectrum, ensuring faithful reproduction of deep bass and highs. The reinforced cantilever maintains this linear response even during intensive handling.
The recommended tracking force of 3 grams represents the optimal balance between groove hold and record preservation. The 2 to 4 gram range allows you to adjust the setting as needed: minimum force for listening, maximum force for intensive scratching.
Broad Compatibility and Installation Considerations
The Concorde MKII MIX fits S-shaped arms with SME/Universal connection, including the Technics SL-1200/1210. On these turntables, the secondary cylindrical counterweight may sometimes need to be removed to reach higher tracking forces.
For straight arms, the spherical stylus is better suited than ellipticals, which can present alignment issues. The 23-degree tilt sometimes used to improve tracking is not recommended, as it accelerates wear.
The Twin set with its metal case makes dual turntable setups easy and protects the cartridges during transport.
A Technical Legacy Serving Performance
The technology is based on the electromagnetic principles discovered by H.C. Ørsted. The VMS system uses a lightweight tubular armature as a variable magnetic shunt, reducing moving mass and improving transient response.
This architecture, perfected over several decades, explains the Concorde’s ability to combine mechanical robustness with sound quality. The MIX MKII continues this tradition by optimizing every component for modern DJing.
Technical Specifications
General Features
- Set of 2 cartridges for disc jockey Ortofon Concorde TWIN MKII MIX
- Ideal for all types of use
- New design
- Colors: black and green
- Removable and sturdy handling grip
- Improved stylus visibility
Technical Specifications
- Output level: 6 mV
- Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Tracking force:
- Possible: 2 - 4 g
- Recommended: 3 g
- Stylus type: spherical
- Weight: 18.5 g
Box Contents
- 2 cartridges with Stylus Mix styluses
- Cleaning brush for stylus
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a Concorde cartridge and an OM cartridge for DJing?
The only distinction lies in the format: the Concorde integrates the cartridge and headshell into a single unit that mounts directly onto the tonearm, while the OM requires a separate headshell with screws. Sound performance is identical between equivalent models. The Concorde simply offers greater convenience for quick changes.
How can I optimize tracking force for my playing style?
For intensive scratching, go up to 4 grams to maximize groove hold. For beat-matching and listening, 2.5 to 3 grams is sufficient and better preserves your records. The 3-gram recommendation is a good starting point to adjust according to your specific needs.
Is the MIX MKII suitable for timecode control vinyl?
While functional with DVS systems, the MIX is not optimized for this use. Its 6 mV output level is lower than the 10 mV of the Concorde Digital, which is specifically designed to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio of timecode vinyl and minimize decoding errors.
Why does the stylus appear to sit very low compared to the cartridge body?
This design feature, present since the first Concorde models, results from optimizing the geometry to reduce moving mass. The low position is normal and does not affect performance as long as the stylus does not touch the record when the arm is at rest.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 5705796013627
