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Ortofon 2M Black - My last MM. (pic)

Posted by HenryH on February 23, 2008 at 12:57:51

Well, yes, the subject line says it all. This is one fine cartridge MM or MC or whatever. The Shibata stylus gives me the best, most open, transparent and extended top end of any cartridge I've ever owned. Comparing it to my reference Dyna 20XL, I give the Dyna a subtle edge in the bass and midrange, but the Black pulls away on top. It is detailed without the sterility and lack of "soul" I heard from my OC9. The top end simply shimmers. Brushed cymbals have that harmonic sheen that few carts can accurately capture and most simply smear.
And the Ortofon is nimble, like the Dyna. It wants to boogie when the music calls for it and is laid back when that is called for. It's a good tracker, too. No signs of mistracking at 1.6 g VTF.
Associated equipment includes the Scout/JMW-9, Hagerman Cornet II (no SUT required, a plus), Hagerman Clarinet line stage, NAD C272 power amp (the Forte is in CA for upgrades and a conversion to Class A operation) and Maggie MMGs supplemented by an Infinity sub.
Let's put it this way. I like the Black enough to plunk down $400 for a third wand for my JMW-9. I now can quickly swap from among three good carts.
The 2M Black has a MSRP of $599, but Thakker on eBay sells it for $100 less. Highly recommended.





Henry

Cogito Ergo Spud

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