Ortofon 2M 78 Premounted MM Moving Magnet Cartridge

The Ortofon 2M 78 Premounted is a pre-mounted version of the 2M 78 cartridge, pre-installed on an Ortofon SH-4 headshell. It is designed for playing 78 RPM records, capable of accurately tracking the wide grooves of early shellac records, while significantly simplifying the installation process. It is especially suitable for turntables with S-shaped tonearms (SME bayonet mount), allowing users to easily rediscover the charm of early recordings.

Product Information and Design Features

The 2M 78 Premounted features the 2M 78 cartridge pre-installed on the classic Ortofon SH-4 headshell, with a total weight of approximately 16.7g. The SH-4 headshell is designed to be lightweight and sturdy, equipped with a standard SME bayonet connector, allowing it to be directly inserted into most S-shaped tonearms. There is no need for users to adjust the mounting angle or tighten screws themselves, making it truly plug-and-play.

This cartridge features a "Strapped Output" design, connecting two sets of terminal signals to output a true monaural signal on a standard stereo system, without requiring additional mono equipment.

Technology and Materials

• Stylus type: Spherical diamond stylus, stylus tip radius R 65 µm
• Cantilever material: Aluminum
• Output voltage: 4 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+3 / -1 dB)
• Tracking ability: 70 µm (315 Hz)
• Dynamic compliance: 18 µm/mN
• Recommended tracking force: 1.8 g (range 1.6–2.0 g)
• Internal impedance: 700 Ω
• Internal inductance: 350 mH
• Recommended load: 47 kΩ, capacitance 150–300 pF
• Cartridge weight: 7.2 g (approx. 16.7 g with headshell)

The core design highlight of the 2M 78 is its stylus:

• Large spherical stylus (R 65 µm): The groove width of early 78 RPM records is approximately 3 to 4 times that of modern LPs. A fine stylus typically used for LPs cannot properly contact the groove walls and instead sits at the bottom of the groove, picking up noise. The large spherical stylus of the 2M 78 properly fits the wide grooves, effectively restoring the music signal and reducing surface noise.

Sound Performance

The 2M 78 Premounted is designed for 78 RPM records, accurately tracking wide grooves to deliver clear, detailed, and dynamically rich sound. It effectively reduces surface noise while presenting the emotional intensity of vocals, the details of string instruments, and the overall live feel and rhythm found in old records. Whether it's classical, jazz, or early pop music 78 RPM records, the charm of those early recordings can be reproduced in a more authentic and engaging way.

User Reviews

Users and professional reviewers generally commend the 2M 78's performance when playing 78 RPM records. Reviews note that it "can present highly detailed string instruments, dynamically rich mid-range, and excellent tracking ability," providing a "clear and emotionally engaging" listening experience when playing classic recordings. Media outlets like Hi-Fi World also praise its "rich detail, low surface noise, fast and powerful rhythm, and excellent tracking performance at the recommended tracking force." Many collectors of old records believe that upgrading to a dedicated 78 RPM cartridge significantly improves the sound and is crucial for appreciating early recordings. The Premounted version is particularly popular among users who want to quickly experience 78 RPM records due to its easy installation.

The Ortofon 2M 78 Premounted is suitable for users who own or collect 78 RPM records. It can correctly and safely play these precious historical recordings, delivering sound performance far superior to using a general LP cartridge, while offering plug-and-play convenience. It is an ideal choice for rediscovering the charm of early music.