Ortofon 2M Black review

Ortofon's 2M Black is an insightful and powerful performer, but take care when matching it to your system Tested at £460

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.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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