Ortofon MC 90X - An Icon Improved
Ortofon's high-end MC 90X is a new version of its iconic MC A90 cartridge, which once revolutionised analogue sound reproduction and set new standards for precision and musicality.
Now featuring improved rubber dampers and a striking blue finish, the new MC 90X is a limited edition Ortofon MC cartridge, which, the company says, "continues the legacy of its predecessor with exceptional precision, clarity, and innovation."
Based on the classic MC A90 design, the MC 90X is a high-end cartridge featuring Ortofon's Replicant 100 diamond. This diamond boasts a thin, light profile and exceptionally large contact surface (r/R 5/100 µm), allowing it to trace grooves with unmatched precision. It's said to closely mimic a cutting stylus. This is partnered with a Boron cantilever to ensure remarkable transparency, speed, and responsiveness, delivering exceptional sound quality for an immersive audio experience.
The coil wires are made of a special alloy, a gold-plated 6NX oxygen-free copper dubbed Aucurum, which is said to result in exceptional signal transmission and produce an output voltage of 0.25 mV.
Another MC 90X standout feature is the Wide Range Damping (WRD) system, which ensures outstanding linear frequency response and an extended upper-frequency range. This advanced system employs a platinum disc between two specially designed absorbers made from Ortofon's in-house developed rubber compound. We are told that this results in superior tracking and effective resonance control across the entire frequency spectrum. Channel balance at 1 kHz is quoted as <0.2 dB alongside a >28 dB channel separation figure.
All this is wrapped in a stainless-steel structure, crafted using Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology. This high-precision technique uses laser welding of microparticles to create a one-piece body. Apparently, this ensures rigidity and optimal cartridge mass while reducing unwanted resonances.
The suggested tracking force for the 9.5g MC 90X is 2.3 grams, which is also stated to possess an 11 µm/mN dynamic lateral compliance.
Each cartridge is meticulously hand-assembled and undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure an authentic and immersive vinyl experience.
Ortofon proudly states that "the MC 90X stays true to the original recording, offering a refined listening experience that continues the legacy of the MC A90."
The Ortofon MC 90X is available now in limited numbers at a suggested retail price of £3,999 / €4.999. Pricing and availability not yet confirmed for other regions.
Visit Ortofon for more information
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Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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