Ortofon 2M Black premounted

2M BLACK Cartridge Premounted on SH-4

The 2M Black Premounted is a high-end cartridge from the Danish brand Ortofon. It is the most advanced model in the 2M series, renowned for delivering highly precise sound reproduction. This moving magnet (MM) cartridge is pre-mounted on the Ortofon SH-4 headshell, making it easy to install on S-shaped tonearms.

Advanced Technology

The 2M Black incorporates several technological innovations developed by Ortofon. Its four-coil engine uses the manufacturer’s patented split pole pins technology. Silver-plated copper wires optimize signal transmission. This advanced design offers an extended and linear frequency response, providing highly faithful sound reproduction.

Shibata Diamond

The 2M Black is equipped with a nude Shibata diamond. This highly tapered stylus profile maximizes contact with the groove walls, allowing for precise reading of the highest frequencies engraved in the vinyl. The stylus radius of 6 µm at the front and 50 µm at the back ensures optimal tracking of even the most information-dense grooves.

Compatibility and Adjustments

Weighing 7.2 g, the 2M Black easily integrates with most tonearms and turntables on the market. Its lateral dynamic compliance of 22 µm/mN allows for a wide range of tracking force adjustments, between 1.4 and 1.7 g (with 1.5 g recommended). The 20° tracking angle is designed for optimal reading geometry.

The 1.2 kΩ DC resistance and 630 mH inductance are compatible with most MM phono preamps. Ortofon recommends a load resistance of 47 kΩ and a capacitance of 150 to 300 pF to get the best performance from this cartridge.

Design and Construction

The 2M Black stands out with its all-black, reinforced plastic body. The four screws allow for precise azimuth adjustment. Mounted on the SH-4 headshell, it forms a robust and elegant unit, with an ergonomic handle for easy handling.

The build quality lives up to Ortofon’s reputation. Each cartridge is hand-assembled and tested in the factory in Denmark, ensuring high reliability. In case of wear, the Shibata diamond can be replaced with that of the nude 2M Black.

Key Advantages of the Ortofon 2M Black Premounted Cartridge

• Exceptional groove tracking thanks to the nude Shibata diamond
• Highly detailed and realistic sound reproduction across the spectrum
• Cutting-edge design with split pole pins technology
• Easy installation with the integrated SH-4 headshell
• Wide compatibility with numerous tonearms and turntables
• Handcrafted in Denmark, ensuring quality and reliability
• Replaceable diamond in case of wear

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Type: MM (Moving Magnet)
• Diamond: Nude Shibata, line contact
• Tracking angle: 20°

Audio Performance

• Output voltage: 5 mV (at 1,000 Hz, 5 cm/s)
• Channel balance: 1 dB (at 1 kHz)
• Channel separation:
  • At 1 kHz: 26 dB
  • At 15 kHz: 15 dB
• Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz (+2/-0 dB)

Mechanical Characteristics

• Tracking ability: 80 μm (315 Hz at recommended tracking force)
• Dynamic lateral compliance: 22 μm/mN
• Diamond tip radius: r/R 6/50 μm
• Tracking force:
  • Range: 1.4-1.7 g (14-17 mN)
  • Recommended: 1.5 g (15 mN)

Electrical Characteristics

• Internal impedance: 1.2 Ω
• Internal inductance: 630 mH
• Recommended load resistance: 47 kΩ
• Recommended load capacitance: 150-300 pF

Weight

• 2MR cartridge: 6 g
• 2M Verso and 2M cartridges: 7.2 g
• Pre-mounted 2M cartridge: 16.7 g

Included Accessories

• Replacement stylus: 2M Black (compatible with 2M Bronze and 2M Black LVB 250)
• Pre-mounted SH-4 headshell