Ortofon MC X20 Low Output Moving Coil Cartridge
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Ortofon MC X20 Low Output Moving Coil Cartridge
The Ortofon MC X20 is a high-performance low output moving coil phono cartridge that steps up from the MC X10 with a Nude Replicant 100 stylus — one of Ortofon's most advanced line-contact profiles. Designed for audiophiles seeking exceptional groove tracing accuracy, ultra-low distortion, and a wide, natural soundstage, the MC X20 is a benchmark cartridge in its class.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | MC X20 |
| Type | Low Output Moving Coil (MC) |
| Output Voltage | 0.2 mV (at 1kHz, 5cm/sec) |
| Channel Balance | < 1.5 dB (at 1kHz) |
| Channel Separation | > 28 dB (at 1kHz) |
| Frequency Response | 20 – 60,000 Hz |
| Tracking Ability | 80 µm (at 315Hz, recommended tracking force) |
| Compliance | 15 µm/mN (dynamic, lateral) |
| Stylus Type | Nude Replicant 100 |
| Stylus Tip Radius | r/R: 5/100 µm |
| Cantilever | Boron |
| Coil Wire | 6N Pure Copper |
| Coil Impedance | 5 Ω (at 1kHz) |
| Recommended Load Impedance | > 10 Ω |
| Recommended Tracking Force | 2.3 g (range: 2.0 – 2.5 g) |
| Vertical Tracking Angle | 20° |
| Internal Inductance | 45 µH |
| Weight | 9.5 g |
| Country of Origin | Denmark |
Key Features
Nude Replicant 100 Stylus on Boron Cantilever
The Replicant 100 is Ortofon's proprietary ultra-fine line stylus profile, with a tip radius of 5/100 µm. This extremely narrow contact patch traces the finest groove modulations with minimal distortion, retrieving high-frequency detail and inner-groove information that conventional elliptical or even standard line-contact styli cannot access. Mounted on a rigid, low-mass boron cantilever, transient response is immediate and precise.
6N Pure Copper Coil at 5Ω Impedance
Ultra-pure 6N (99.9999%) copper coil wire is wound to a very low impedance of 5Ω, minimising resistive losses and thermal noise. The result is a clean, low-level signal that rewards a high-quality MC phono stage or step-up transformer with exceptional signal purity and dynamic range.
Low Output Moving Coil Design
As a low output MC cartridge, the MC X20 requires a dedicated MC phono stage or step-up transformer. The reward is a more direct signal path — greater transient speed, lower distortion, and a more lifelike, three-dimensional soundstage compared to moving magnet designs.
Extended Frequency Response to 60kHz
With a frequency response extending to 60,000Hz, the MC X20 resolves the full bandwidth of high-resolution analogue content. Whether playing standard 33rpm LPs or 45rpm pressings, every harmonic overtone and spatial cue is faithfully retrieved from the groove.
Superior Tracking Ability
The MC X20 achieves a tracking ability of 80µm at 315Hz — a significant step up from the MC X10's 70µm — meaning it handles even the most demanding high-amplitude groove modulations without mistracking, preserving dynamics and protecting your records.
Caring for your Speakers and Amplifiers
To Keep your equipment safe these are some best practices to note. Please be advised that this is only to reduce the risk of misuse and is not an exhaustive list.
Speakers
- Speaker terminals are marked red and black, ensure your amplifier to the speakers are wired on the same colours
- Ensure no loose speaker wire from the red touches a loose wire from the black as this will lead to a short circuit and damage either the speaker, the amplifier or both.
- Not all speakers are designed to play at max volume, kindly consider the pairing of your amplifier and speakers
- Speaker cabinets cannot be replaced please handle with care.
AV & Stereo Amplifiers
- If your amplifier has HDMI ports, ensure all devices are off before plugging in the HDMI cable
- Turn off the amplifier before swoping out or adding speaker cable
- Amplifiers generate heat, place them in a well ventilated space. if possible avoid having anything on top of the unit.
- adding a surge protector can assist with power dips which are likely to damage your devices. Isotek and Furman are industry standard.
- Dusty environments can sometimes lead to accumulation of dust in the electronic components that might affect heat regulation
Shipping & Returns
- Free shipping on orders over R500 within the country.
- Standard delivery within 2–5 business days. Delays will be communicated. This might vary slightly depending on your location.
- Return items in original condition for a full refund. (unopened state)
- Returns that are open/unboxed will be subject to a handling fee. Refunds will only be processed after testing the unit.