Ortofon MC X40 – The Ultimate Statement in Moving Coil Cartridge Design
The Ortofon MC X40 represents the culmination of decades of research and innovation in analog audio. As the flagship model of Ortofon’s MC X Series, the X40 is engineered for reference-grade performance, offering extraordinary detail, spatial realism, and musicality. Every component and material is chosen with precision to deliver uncompromising sonic accuracy—bringing you closer than ever to the original recording.
Key Features & Technical Insights
Output Voltage: 0.2 mV at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Low-output design provides pure, uncolored signal transmission with minimal electrical interference, making it ideal for high-end MC phono stages with high-gain capabilities.
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 50,000 Hz
Extends far beyond the audible range, capturing every subtle overtone and atmospheric nuance for stunning realism and air.
Stylus Profile: Nude Replicant 100
The Replicant 100 is one of the most advanced stylus profiles available, with a long and narrow contact area that traces even the finest groove modulations. It ensures ultra-low distortion, extended high-frequency response, and outstanding detail retrieval.
Cantilever: Diamond
The MC X40 features a diamond cantilever—the stiffest and most inert material used in cartridge design. Its ultra-low mass and extreme rigidity contribute to unmatched transient accuracy, black backgrounds, and pinpoint imaging.
Tracking Force: 2.3 – 2.8 g (Recommended: 2.6 g)
Precisely optimized for stability and tracking accuracy across the entire surface of the record, even under challenging conditions.
Channel Separation: 28 dB at 1 kHz / 23 dB at 15 kHz
Outstanding stereo separation offers a wide and holographic soundstage, effortlessly placing instruments and vocals within a three-dimensional space.
Channel Balance: ≤ 0.8 dB at 1 kHz
Ensures tonal consistency and symmetrical imaging between channels for a natural and balanced presentation.
Internal Impedance: 6 Ohms
Low internal resistance offers broad compatibility with a wide range of MC phono stages and transformer-based step-up devices.
Recommended Load Impedance: >10 Ohms
Optimized for maximum performance and tuning flexibility with various system setups.
Tracking Ability: 90 μm at 315 Hz
Exceptional groove tracing ability results in flawless reproduction of microdynamics and clean playback, even on complex or worn records.
Cartridge Weight: 9 grams
Perfectly suited for medium to high-mass tonearms, providing mechanical stability and optimal damping for refined performance.
Body Construction: Titanium Alloy with Stainless Steel
The MC X40’s hybrid body design eliminates unwanted resonances and vibrational colorations, delivering a neutral sonic signature and a stunningly low noise floor.
