New Product Introduction: Ortofon MC X Series – Classics Reimagined
Technical Evolution of Historic Models
Ortofon has a long history of successful Moving Coil systems. Models like the MC 10, MC 20, and MC 30 have established themselves through high precision and sound quality. With the new MC X Series, this heritage is continued in a contemporary form, utilizing modern materials and revised components.
Tradition Meets New Technology
The earlier systems were characterized by low output voltages, high-resolution diamond cuts, and low weight. The MC X Series incorporates these features and enhances them with new damping elements and optimized magnetic circuits.
The Four Models of the MC X Series at a Glance
MC X10 – Entry-Level Model
Equipped with an elliptical diamond and aluminum cantilever, the MC X10 offers a transparent sound reproduction. The output voltage is 0.4 mV. Recommended load resistance: over 500 Ohms.
MC X20 – Expanded Soundstage
The MC X20 uses a nude elliptical diamond, improving imaging performance and spatial depth – ideal for listeners focused on tone color and emotional details.
MC X30 – Fine Resolution
A nude Fine Line diamond with 8/40 µm radii provides increased detail accuracy and deeper spatial imaging. The sound structure remains clear and balanced.
MC X40 – Top Model of the Series
With a nude Shibata diamond on a boron cantilever, the MC X40 delivers a particularly precise and dynamic sound. It is designed for demanding setups and listening environments.
Technical Overview of the Ortofon MC X Series
| Model Name | MC X10 | MC X20 | MC X30 | MC X40 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 0.4 mV | 0.4 mV | 0.4 mV | 0.4 mV |
| Cantilever Material | Aluminium | Aluminium | Aluminium | Boron |
| Stylus Type | Elliptical | Elliptical, Nude | Fine-Line, Nude | Shibata, Nude |
| Stylus Tip Radius (r/Fl) | 8/18 µm | 8/18 µm | 8/40 µm | 6/50 µm |
| Stylus Suspension | Ortofon Exclusive | Ortofon Exclusive | Ortofon Exclusive | Ortofon Exclusive |
| Coil System | Quad-Coils | Quad-Coils | Quad-Coils | Quad-Coils |
| Coil Wire | High-Purity Silver | High-Purity Silver | High-Purity Silver | High-Purity Silver |
| Channel Balance at 1 kHz | 0.5 dB | 0.5 dB | 0.5 dB | 0.5 dB |
| Channel Separation at 1 kHz | 24 dB | 25 dB | 26 dB | 26 dB |
| Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz | +/- 2 dB | +/- 1 dB | +/- 1 dB | +/- 1 dB |
| Dynamic Lateral Compliance | 13 µm/mN | 15 µm/mN | 15 µm/mN | 15 µm/mN |
| Recommended Tracking Force | 2.0 grams | 2.0 grams | 2.0 grams | 2.0 grams |
| Recommended Load Resistance | > 50 Ohms | > 50 Ohms | > 50 Ohms | > 50 Ohms |
| Internal Impedance, DC Resistance | 6 Ohms | 6 Ohms | 6 Ohms | 6 Ohms |
| Cartridge Weight | 8.6 grams | 8.6 grams | 8.6 grams | 8.6 grams |
| Recommended Retail Price (RRP) | 299.00 EUR | 499.00 EUR | 699.00 EUR | 999.00 EUR |
Technical Highlights of the MC X Series
- Pure Silver Windings: All four models use high-purity silver for the coils – a clear upgrade over previous MC generations.
- New Magnet Design: A specially developed pole system with a one-piece pole cylinder ensures maximum magnetic efficiency with low weight.
- Proprietary Rubber Dampers: Damping is crucial for precise coil guidance – it is based on a custom rubber mixture from Ortofon production.
- Consistent Channel Balance: All models in the series achieve a channel balance of 0.5 dB and channel separation of up to 26 dB.
- Recommended Tracking Force: Uniform 2.0 grams – easy to handle and practical.
A HIGH-END MC series for beginners to experts?
The Ortofon MC X Series offers four precisely graded models with high technical demands and sonic finesse. Those seeking an entry-level model into the world of high-quality MC cartridges will likely be satisfied with the X10. Advanced audiophiles, who value tonal authenticity and fine resolution, will likely find the X30 to be perfect. And with the X40, Ortofon addresses listeners for whom music enjoyment means nothing less than absolute perfection. How the new MCs sound will be revealed here soon – stay tuned!
Our Opinion: A welcome reinterpretation of a legendary series – with a clear commitment to the analog future.
