What Hi-Fi? Verdict
For those after a powerful, yet fun-loving performance, this Ortofon should be a must-listen
Pros
- +
Very detailed, impressive transparency, insightful
Cons
- -
Bass lacks some definition
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
The 2M Black is the top of Ortofon’s 2M range. At 7.2g it’s a heavy shelled cartridge, and has a relatively light recommended tracking force of 1.5g.
Following running in, it showed real power and dynamics, as well as crisp timing.
A very transparent and detailed stylus, the Ortofon handles subtlety well, with vocals especially possessing supreme inflection and insight.
The midrange is expressive, and the treble is insightful and vivid. Bass lacks a little definition compared with the higher frequencies, but that’s only a minor quibble.
Take care with matching if you’ve a bright-sounding system.
But if you’re looking for downright oomph and fun, the Ortofon 2M Black is where it’s at.
