Ortofon MC X30 – Flagship Moving Coil Cartridge for Ultimate Analog Performance
The Ortofon MC X30 stands at the pinnacle of Ortofon’s MC X Series, embodying their most refined engineering to deliver uncompromising analog sound quality. Designed for audiophiles who demand absolute transparency, dynamics, and finesse, the MC X30 combines cutting-edge materials with precise manufacturing to faithfully reproduce the full depth and breadth of your vinyl collection.
Key Features & Technical Insights
Output Voltage: 0.2 mV at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
The ultra-low output provides improved signal purity and enhanced resolution when paired with a high-quality MC phono stage with sufficient gain (typically 60–70 dB).
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 50,000 Hz
Captures the entire audible spectrum—and beyond—preserving fine harmonic detail, ambient textures, and low-end authority with exceptional smoothness and extension.
Stylus Profile: Nude Replicant 100
This long-contact, hyper-elliptical stylus shape is among the most accurate available, capable of tracing the deepest groove modulations with minimal distortion. It brings out inner groove nuances and subtle textures with breathtaking precision.
Cantilever: Boron
Extremely rigid and lightweight, boron enables fast transient response and contributes to the cartridge’s incredibly open and detailed sound signature. It plays a vital role in minimizing coloration and phase errors.
Tracking Force: 2.2 – 2.7 g (Recommended: 2.5 g)
Balanced tracking across all record surfaces ensures stable performance and reduced groove wear, making it ideal for high-resolution listening.
Channel Separation: 28 dB at 1 kHz / 22 dB at 15 kHz
Exceptional separation allows for a deeply layered and holographic stereo image, revealing subtle positional cues and instrument placement with ease.
Channel Balance: ≤ 0.8 dB at 1 kHz
Superb channel balance results in a perfectly centered image and tonal consistency between left and right channels.
Internal Impedance: 6 Ohms
Low internal impedance ensures compatibility with a wide range of MC phono preamps and step-up transformers without compromising signal integrity.
Recommended Load Impedance: >10 Ohms
Flexible loading helps tailor sonic performance to suit a variety of system and listener preferences, preserving tonal accuracy.
Tracking Ability: 90 μm at 315 Hz
Extraordinary groove-tracing capability ensures flawless playback even under demanding passages or imperfect pressings.
Cartridge Weight: 9 grams
Designed to integrate seamlessly with medium and high-mass tonearms, ensuring optimal resonance control and mechanical stability.
Body Construction: Titanium Alloy & Stainless Steel
The MC X30’s composite body is highly rigid and resonance-free, providing a solid platform for the stylus and motor assembly. This contributes to the cartridge's ultra-low coloration and black background noise floor.
