Ortofon Stylus 20

Ortofon Stylus 20 Replacement Diamond

The Stylus 20 is a replacement diamond designed and manufactured by Ortofon, a renowned Danish maker of phono cartridges and accessories for turntables. This nude elliptical diamond is compatible with a wide range of Ortofon cartridges, including the OM, Super OM, Concorde, LM, and TM series.

Technical Specifications

The Stylus 20 stands out with its very narrow elliptical profile with a tip radius of 8/18 µm (r/R). This particular shape allows it to penetrate deeper into the record groove and capture the highest frequencies with great precision. Compared to a spherical diamond, it offers better channel separation and lower harmonic distortion.

Made from natural diamond, the hardest known material, the Stylus 20 is extremely wear-resistant. Its low mass of 0.4 mg reduces inertia and improves dynamics. The recommended tracking force is between 1.25 and 1.75 g with a tracking angle of 20°. The nude tip is directly mounted on the aluminum cantilever for optimal vibration transmission.

Compatibility

The Stylus 20 is a versatile diamond suitable for many Ortofon cartridges:

• OM Series: Super OM 20, OM 20, OM 5, OM 10, OM 5E, OM 10E, OM 20E
• Concorde Series: Concorde 20
• LM Series: LM 20, LM 20H
• OMP Series: OMP 20, OMP 10, OMP 5E
• TM Series: TM 20, TM 20H

It allows for cost-effective upgrades of entry-level cartridges like the OM 5E and OM 10 to a higher performance level, close to a high-end cartridge.

Sound Quality

Replacing an original diamond with a Stylus 20 brings an immediate and significant improvement in listening quality. The sound gains clarity, dynamics, and richness across the entire spectrum. The bandwidth extends from 20 Hz to 27 kHz with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz at +/- 3 dB. The bass is deeper and better defined. The midrange is detailed and lively, with natural vocals. The treble is extended, precise, and crystalline, without harshness or sibilance.

The Stylus 20 reproduces the slightest nuances and micro-details engraved in the groove with great realism. The soundstage is wide and deep, with good instrument placement and a nice sense of space. Musicality and engagement are guaranteed.

Wear Reduction

Thanks to its narrow elliptical profile, the Stylus 20 reduces wear on both the diamond and records compared to a spherical tip. By better fitting the groove walls, it limits friction and “scratching” in the highs. Properly adjusted in terms of tracking force and anti-skating, it ensures precise and consistent groove tracking, without skips or distortions, even on dynamic passages or slightly warped records. The risk of damaging precious records is minimized.

Easy Installation

Replacing the original diamond with a Stylus 20 is a simple operation that takes only a few seconds. Just gently pull the old diamond forward to remove it, then insert the new one by pushing it until it “clicks” into place. No tools are needed, and the cartridge settings (azimuth, tracking angle, tracking force) are not altered. This allows for an easy upgrade without having to disassemble or completely readjust the cartridge.

Main Advantages of the Ortofon Stylus 20

• High-precision elliptical nude diamond
• Compatible with a wide range of Ortofon cartridges
• Significant improvement in sound quality
• Reduced wear on records and diamond
• Easy and quick installation
• Excellent value for money

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Stylus tip: elliptical
• Tip color: black
• Tracking angle: 20°

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz +2/-3 dB
• Tracking ability (315 Hz at recommended tracking force): 70 µm
• Lateral dynamic compliance: 25 µm / mN

Tracking Parameters

• Tip radius: r / R 8/18 µm
• Tracking force range: 1.25-1.75 g (12.5-17.5 mN)
• Recommended tracking force: 1.5 g (15 mN)

Compatibility

Compatible with: Super OM 20, OM 20, OMP 20, OMB 20, LM 20, Concorde 20, LM 20H, TM 20U, TM 20H