Ortofon 2M Red

“The Red easily resolves the inner detail of the brass ensemble during Holly Cole’s The Briar and the Rose. This section can sound brittle and synthesized on CD but one of the 2M’s strengths is the lower midrange, which is critical to imparting the energy of these instruments. In comparison to the 2M Black, the Red clocks in as a little drier and sounds as if it’s making more of an effort in the upper treble. Keep in mind that, although it lacks some of the velvety finesse and smooth harmonic finish of the Black, this is one sophisticated and musical cartridge—for the price of a nice dinner for two.”

“…Ortofon cartridges are very informative…well extended at both frequency extremes…this one seems to fit the pattern…. The treble is notably clean and tidy, full of life without ever becoming strident or harsh…. Bass is assured…. Tracking very confident…”

“The midrange is full and expressive, handling vocals with sensitivity and warmth. The bass and treble interact well here, and while we’d like more authority from the bass, it’s a minor quibble that we can live with. “