Ortofon MC X Cartridge Series Launched at High End Munich

Ortofon MC X Series moving coil cartridges are setting a new benchmark in high-fidelity vinyl playback with a blend of cutting-edge materials and precision engineering. This exceptional lineup—comprising the MC X10, MC X20, MC X30, and MC X40—features a brand-new magnet system, ultra-pure silver quad-coils, and advanced cantilever options, including aluminium and boron, paired with high-performance diamond stylus profiles. At the heart of each cartridge is a stainless steel frame crafted using advanced Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) technology, paired with a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating to ensure rigidity, durability, and an acoustically inert foundation for superior sound accuracy.

The Ortofon MC X Series introduces a state-of-the-art magnetic system, featuring a one-piece pole cylinder integrated directly into a rear magnet yoke. This design, in combination with high-purity silver coils, delivers outstanding magnetic efficiency and a clean, dynamic signal path that audiophiles will appreciate. Internal rubber damping—developed and tested by Ortofon—ensures stability, minimizes resonance, and guarantees precise tracking across all four models. From the MC X10’s elliptical stylus to the top-tier MC X40’s nude Shibata diamond stylus mounted on a boron cantilever, each cartridge is meticulously tuned for uncompromising clarity and channel separation up to 26dB at 1kHz.

Each cartridge in the lineup weighs 8.6g, requires a 2g tracking force, and sports a channel balance tolerance of 0.5dB at 1kHz—ensuring consistent, high-performance stereo imaging. Dynamic lateral compliance varies slightly between models, with frequency response ranging from 20Hz–20kHz ±1 dB (±2 dB on the MC X10). The MC X10 retails at £269/€299, while the flagship MC X40 commands £875/€999, offering high-end vinyl enthusiasts a model for every listening need. For a deeper look at cartridge technology, visit What Hi-Fi’s guide to cartridge upgrades. To discover more about our other audiophile cartridge reviews and recommendations, check out our phono cartridges hub.