Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge Review: A Mono Marvel for Audiophiles
As an audiophile and reviewer at The Audio Tailor, I'm thrilled to present this Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge review. This exceptional piece of audio engineering promises to transport vinyl enthusiasts back to the golden age of mono recordings with unparalleled authenticity and precision. Let's delve into what makes this cartridge a must-have for serious collectors and mono aficionados alike.
Embracing Mono Magic
The Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge is a testament to Ortofon's commitment to preserving and enhancing the mono listening experience. With its specially designed R 18µm Nude Spherical diamond stylus tip, this cartridge is expertly crafted to extract every nuance from mono microgroove LP vinyl records. The result is a listening experience that's both nostalgic and revelatory, bringing new life to classic mono recordings.
Design and Compatibility
One of the standout features of the 2MR Mono is its thoughtful design. The cartridge housing is tailored specifically for turntables and tonearms like Rega, addressing the need for low-form factor cartridges. This narrow profile ensures seamless integration without the need for modifications or spacers under the tonearm. Installation is a breeze, requiring just two screws for quick and easy mounting.
Technical Marvels
At the heart of the 2MR Mono lies a high-performance motor system featuring quad coils and Ortofon's proprietary split pole pins. This innovative design delivers a strapped output, providing the same output signal from both sets of pole pins. The beauty of this system is its versatility – it eliminates the need for mono-specific equipment, allowing true mono reproduction on any stereo playback system.
Sonic Performance
The 2MR Mono's frequency response of 20 Hz to 10 kHz (+3 dB / -1 dB) ensures a faithful reproduction of the entire audible spectrum. With an output voltage of 4 mV at 1 kHz, 5cm/sec, it provides ample signal strength for most phono stages. The cartridge's tracking ability of 70 µm at 315Hz demonstrates its capability to handle even the most challenging groove modulations with ease.
Optimised Tracking
With a recommended tracking force of 1.8 g (18 mN) and a range of 1.6-2.0 g, the 2MR Mono ensures optimal contact with the record groove. This precision tracking, combined with the 20° tracking angle, results in minimal wear on your precious mono vinyl while extracting maximum musical information.
Aesthetic Appeal
The 2MR Mono doesn't just sound great; it looks the part too. Its sleek black and white design is both stylish and functional, complementing a wide range of turntable aesthetics. Weighing in at just 6 g, it's light enough to work with a variety of tonearms without placing undue stress on the suspension.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional mono reproduction
- Tailored for Rega and similar turntables
- Easy installation with narrow cartridge housing
- True mono output compatible with stereo systems
- High-quality R 18µm Nude Spherical diamond stylus
- Versatile tracking force range
- Stylish black and white design
Cons:
- Specialised for mono playback (not a con for mono enthusiasts!)
- May require adjustment for optimal performance on some systems
Who Is This For?
The Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge is an ideal choice for:
- Serious vinyl collectors with extensive mono libraries
- Audiophiles seeking authentic reproduction of classic mono recordings
- Owners of Rega and similar turntables looking for a perfect fit
- Anyone looking to explore the rich history of mono recordings with modern precision
A Mono Renaissance
In an era where stereo dominates, the Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge stands as a beacon for mono enthusiasts. It's not just a cartridge; it's a time machine that transports you back to the essence of early recordings, revealing nuances and details you might have missed with lesser equipment.
If you're passionate about mono vinyl and want to experience your collection as it was meant to be heard, we at The Audio Tailor highly recommend giving the Ortofon 2MR Mono a listen. Our team of experts is always on hand to discuss how this remarkable cartridge can enhance your vinyl setup. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're just a call away and eager to share our passion for exceptional audio with you.
The Ortofon 2MR Mono Moving Magnet Cartridge isn't just a product; it's an invitation to rediscover the magic of mono. Why not give us a ring and let's explore how we can bring this mono marvel into your listening room? Your vinyl collection deserves nothing less than the best, and the 2MR Mono is ready to deliver an auditory experience that's truly out of this world.