Ortofon 2M bronze

The Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge is a moving magnet (MM) model designed for vinyl record playback. It uses a Fine Line diamond whose shape enables precise groove tracing and reduced record wear. This model is part of Ortofon’s 2M range, which offers various cartridges tailored to different listening needs and preferences.

A Fine Line diamond to sculpt the sound

The 2M Bronze stands out with its nude Fine Line diamond, a tip with a complex, refined profile that penetrates deeper into the record groove than traditional elliptical diamonds. This particular geometry, with 8/40 µm radii, ensures optimal contact with the groove walls. The Fine Line diamond excels at tracing high-frequency modulations, capturing the most subtle harmonics and fastest transients with apparent ease.

This configuration not only allows for more detailed retrieval of engraved information, but also reduces record wear. The enlarged contact area distributes the 1.5-gram tracking force more evenly, preserving groove integrity even after repeated plays. Older records or delicate pressings particularly benefit from this gentle yet precise approach.

The aluminum cantilever carrying this diamond has been optimized to offer an ideal balance between rigidity and lightness. This combination ensures faithful transmission of microscopic vibrations to the electromagnetic generator, with no coloration or loss of information.

Split pole pin technology: when innovation changes the game

At the heart of the 2M Bronze beats a sophisticated motor that leverages Ortofon’s patented split pole pin technology. This innovation, first introduced on the 500 and Super OM series, allows moving magnet cartridges to achieve the kind of linear frequency response usually reserved for far more expensive moving coil designs.

The principle consists of splitting the magnetic poles to drastically reduce eddy currents that typically disturb the signal in conventional MM cartridges. This architecture delivers a remarkably flat response curve across an extended range from 20 Hz to 29 kHz, with a tolerance of just +2/-0 dB over the main audible band.

The 2M Bronze’s generator receives special treatment: the coils are made of silver-plated copper wire, optimizing electrical conductivity and minimizing signal loss. This attention to detail translates into a generous 5 mV output, ensuring optimal compatibility with the majority of MM phono preamplifiers on the market.

A Lexan DMX body: rigidity in the service of musicality

The 2M Bronze’s body is crafted from a revolutionary composite material, Lexan DMX. This engineering resin, developed specifically for applications demanding exceptional rigidity, exhibits remarkable acoustic properties. Its density and molecular structure effectively dissipate parasitic vibrations that could interfere with generator operation.

This structural rigidity translates sonically into a total absence of coloration, allowing each instrument to occupy its own space without masking or confusion. Unwanted resonances that often affect less sophisticated cartridges are eliminated at the source here, delivering striking sonic transparency.

The cartridge’s design, created in collaboration with Danish firm Møller Jensen Design, is inspired by a diamond’s facets. This aesthetic approach is not purely cosmetic: the angles and surfaces are calculated to optimize the dispersion of residual vibrations. The stylus’s distinctive bronze color allows immediate identification within the 2M range and facilitates alignment during installation.

Universal compatibility designed for the user

At 7.2 grams, the 2M Bronze fits the vast majority of tonearms on the market. Its standard format with 12.5 mm mounting centers and threaded holes enables direct mounting without nuts, greatly simplifying installation. This versatility extends to electrical parameters: the recommended 47 kΩ load impedance and 150–300 pF capacitance match the standards of most phono preamps.

The cartridge comes in several versions to suit all setups: the standard version for conventional headshells, the Verso version for bottom-mount installations (turntables from Thorens or Revox), the PNP version pre-mounted on an SH-4 headshell for S-shaped tonearms on Technics turntables, and even a 2MR version specifically designed for Rega turntables with their characteristically low height.

This flexibility reflects Ortofon’s commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality without forcing users to modify their existing systems. The dynamic compliance of 22 µm/mN ensures optimal compatibility with medium to higher-mass tonearms.

A natural evolution within the 2M range

The 2M Bronze occupies a strategic position in the 2M series hierarchy. It shares the same body and upgraded motor as the 2M Black, the flagship model in the range, but with a Fine Line rather than Shibata diamond. This technical kinship allows 2M Bronze owners to upgrade their cartridge later by simply installing a 2M Black stylus without changing the cartridge body.

Compared to the Red and Blue models, which share a different motor, the Bronze marks a significant qualitative leap. Moving from the Blue’s nude elliptical diamond to the Bronze’s Fine Line, combined with the improved motor and Lexan DMX body, results in increased resolution, better channel separation (26 dB at 1 kHz), and a superior ability to extract micro-detail without becoming analytical or fatiguing.

Frequently asked questions

What is the lifespan of the 2M Bronze’s Fine Line diamond? With proper care and clean records, the 2M Bronze’s diamond can deliver up to 1000 hours of listening without any noticeable degradation in performance. This exceptional longevity stems from the quality of the nude diamond and the optimal distribution of tracking force over a larger contact area. Regular cleaning of the diamond with the supplied brush will extend its life.

Does the 2M Bronze require a specific phono preamplifier? No, the 2M Bronze is designed to work with any standard MM phono preamplifier. Its 5 mV output and electrical characteristics (1.2 kΩ impedance, recommended 47 kΩ load) conform to universal norms. It pairs perfectly with integrated phono stages in amplifiers or with standalone preamps.

Can I fit a 2M Black stylus on my 2M Bronze cartridge? Yes, that’s one of the major advantages of the modular 2M design. The Bronze and Black share identical bodies; only the diamonds differ. You can therefore upgrade your Bronze by fitting a 2M Black stylus (Shibata diamond) or even a 2M Black LVB 250 without changing the cartridge body, achieving the higher model’s performance at a lower cost.

How does the 2M Bronze compare to a moving coil cartridge? Thanks to split pole pin technology, the 2M Bronze offers frequency response linearity comparable to MC cartridges, while retaining the practical advantages of MM designs: high output, universal compatibility, and a user-replaceable stylus. It’s an excellent compromise for those seeking high sound quality without the constraints of MC cartridges.

What is the optimal tracking force setting? Ortofon recommends a tracking force of 1.5 grams, at the center of the usable range (1.4–1.7 g). This setting offers the best balance of tracking ability, sound quality, and record preservation. Too light a setting can cause distortion and damage grooves, while excessive force accelerates wear of both the diamond and your records.

Is the 2M Bronze suitable for mono or 78 rpm records? The 2M Bronze is optimized for stereo 33 and 45 rpm records. For mono discs, Ortofon offers the specifically designed 2M Mono, and for 78s, the 2M 78 with a spherical diamond suited to the wider grooves of these older records. Using the Bronze on these special formats is not recommended and could damage your discs.

Technical Specifications

General Information

• Type: Ortofon 2M Bronze Moving Magnet Cartridge
• Color: Black body, bronze stylus
• Diamond: Fine Line profile
• Weight: 7.2 g

Electrical Specifications

• Output voltage: 5 mV (at 1,000 Hz, 5 cm/s)
• Internal impedance: 1.2 kΩ
• Internal inductance: 630 mH
• Recommended load resistance: 47 kΩ
• Recommended load capacitance: 150-300 pF

Audio Performance

• Frequency range: 20-29,000 Hz (-3 dB)
• Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz (+2/-0 dB)
• Channel balance at 1,000 Hz: 1 dB
• Channel separation:
  • At 1,000 Hz: 26 dB
  • At 15,000 Hz: 15 dB

Mechanical Specifications

• Dynamic lateral compliance: 22 µm/mN
• Stylus tip radius: r/R 8/40 µm
• Tracking ability: 80 µm (at 315 Hz)
• Tracking force:
  • Range: 1.4-1.7 g (14-17 mN)
  • Recommended: 1.5 g (15 mN)
• Tracking angle: 20°