Ortofon Concorde MKII TWIN DJ
Overview
This professional cartridge for turntables represents the culmination of over a century of Danish expertise in analog playback. The Concorde MKII Twin DJ set brings together two identical cartridges designed to offer versatility and reliability to DJs, regardless of their mixing style.
Technical Architecture and Modernized Design
The Concorde MKII DJ embodies a complete overhaul of the original series launched in 1984. The body features a more robust design with a reinforced structure that enhances overall rigidity. The cantilever benefits from an entirely new design: lighter and stiffer, it has a reduced wall thickness while maintaining remarkable strength.
The suspension system is the major advancement of this generation. The new rubber formulation forms a perfect seal around the cantilever, significantly improving tracking ability. The 18-micrometer spherical diamond ensures optimal contact with the groove, making it particularly suitable for intensive handling.
Redesigned Ergonomics and Customization
The now-replaceable finger lift features a conical shape with a continuous metal ring and an enlarged, textured, non-slip grip area. Customization is possible thanks to colored versions available in red, black, yellow, and orange.
The distinctive blue and orange color scheme makes for quick identification. The diamond viewing window has been enlarged for better visual control. Each Twin set includes a sturdy flight case and a specially designed cleaning brush for diamond maintenance.
Acoustic Performance and Versatility
Nicknamed the “Swiss Army knife” by professionals, the Concorde MKII DJ adapts to all musical styles. The 6 mV output level ensures a strong enough signal for preamplifiers while maintaining an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. The frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
The recommended tracking force of 4 grams represents the optimal compromise between stability and record preservation. The tolerated range of 3 to 5 grams allows for fine-tuning according to preference. This flexibility translates to a tracking ability of 100 micrometers at 315 Hz.
Compatibility and System Integration
The Concorde design allows for direct installation on the tonearm without the need for a headshell. The 18.5-gram weight fits perfectly with DJ turntables on the market, from classic Technics SL-1200/1210 models to the latest releases.
MKII styli are not interchangeable with the first generation, as a result of improvements made to the suspension system and cantilever geometry. Each MKII cartridge forms a synergistic unit where every component is optimized for the others.
Technical Specifications
Design and Ergonomics
- New modern design
- Blue and orange colors
- Removable and durable handle
- Improved diamond visibility
- Weight: 18.5 g
Audio Performance
- Versatile for all uses
- Output level: 6 mV
- Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
Technical Specifications
- Diamond type: spherical
- Tracking force range: 3 - 5 g
- Recommended tracking force: 4 g
Included Accessories
- Diamond cleaning brush
- Set of 2 cartridges
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the DJ model and other cartridges in the MKII range?
The DJ model stands as the versatile reference in the range, offering the best balance between sound quality, robustness, and tracking ability. Unlike the entry-level Mix model, it benefits from better tracking performance. Compared to the Club, which prioritizes sound quality with its special elliptical stylus, the DJ retains a spherical diamond better suited to intensive handling.
Are MKII styli compatible with first-generation cartridges?
No, MKII and MKI styli are not interchangeable, either physically or electrically. The new generation incorporates substantial changes to the suspension system and cantilever, making any cross-compatibility impossible. However, this incompatibility ensures optimal performance with the new components.
Should the additional counterweight be removed on Technics turntables?
For users of Technics SL-1200/1210, it may be necessary to remove the small cylindrical counterweight at the rear of the tonearm to achieve the recommended tracking force. With this weight installed, the maximum achievable force is limited to about 2 grams. Removing it allows you to reach approximately 4.75 grams.
How can I optimize cartridge setup?
Setup begins by balancing the tonearm to zero (cartridge floating horizontally above the platter), followed by applying the recommended tracking force of 4 grams using the counterweight. Anti-skating should be set to the same value. An alignment template can be used to fine-tune the diamond’s alignment in the groove.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 5705796013641