Ortofon SPU #1 S
Best moving coil cartridge for audiophiles seeking a high-fidelity vinyl upgrade.
This cartridge brings the legendary, rich character of moving coil technology to your turntable without the usual complexity. While the spherical stylus trades ultimate high-frequency detail for a forgiving, musical presentation, it remains a fantastic entry point for anyone wanting to hear their vinyl collection with newfound depth and warmth.
$838.99
at
Ortofon (Official US Store)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking the classic, warm Ortofon vintage sound signature
- Vinyl collectors playing older or less-than-perfect record pressings
- Listeners wanting easier phono stage matching with moving coil cartridges
Who should skip it
- Owners of lightweight, modern tonearms lacking high-mass compatibility
- Listeners prioritizing high-frequency detail and complex soundstage imaging
- Users without access to a dedicated high-gain MC phono preamp
Performance breakdown
Sonic richness
Classic moving coil design delivers a warm, full-bodied analog sound signature.
Tracking precision
Spherical stylus geometry handles standard groove modulation with reliable, consistent stability.
Installation ease
Standard half-inch mount ensures straightforward compatibility with most modern tonearms.
Build integrity
Robust construction reflects Ortofon's long-standing reputation for durable, high-precision engineering.
Genre versatility
Balanced output profile performs admirably across both vintage and modern pressings.
Detail retrieval
Captures musical nuance effectively without over-emphasizing surface noise or imperfections.
Key Specs
Channel balance
1.5 dB
Output voltage
0.18 mV
Channel separation
20 dB
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Tracking ability
60 µm
Compliance
10 µm/mN
Tracking force
4.0 g
Internal impedance
2 ohm
Recommended load impedance
10 ohm
Weight
28 g
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