Ortofon has announced the release of the MC 90X, a reimagining of the highly regarded MC A90 cartridge, intent on setting new standards for precision and musicality.
The Ortofon MC 90X stands out with its distinctive blue color scheme and an upgraded stylus rubber, continuing the legacy of its predecessor with what Ortofon describes as exceptional precision, clarity, and innovation. Available as a limited edition, the MC 90X is aimed at discerning audiophiles seeking high-end vinyl playback.
Precision Engineering and Handcrafted Quality
According to Ortofon, the MC 90X benefits from decades of expertise in analogue sound reproduction. Each cartridge is assembled by hand and subjected to rigorous quality control to ensure what the company describes as an authentic and captivating vinyl listening experience, reminiscent of the legendary MC A90.
A Classic, Reinterpreted
Building on the technology of the MC A90, the MC 90X features a stainless steel body manufactured using Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology. Ortofon also highlights key technical features such as the Field Stabilizing Element (FSE) and the Wide Range Damping System (WRD), along with a newly developed stylus suspension system. The cartridge incorporates a bevelled boron cantilever and an Ortofon Replicant 100 diamond stylus.
The Highlights in Detail
- Field Stabilizing Element (FSE): Designed to improve dynamics and channel separation by stabilizing the magnetic field.
- Wide Range Damping (WRD): Engineered to provide a highly linear frequency response and an extended upper-frequency range.
- Ortofon Replicant 100 Diamond Stylus: Said to offer exceptional transparency, speed, and precision.
- Optimized Rubber Dampers: Developed to enhance resonance control across the frequency spectrum.
In-House Rubber Production for Optimal Performance
Ortofon emphasizes that its in-house development and production of rubber compounds ensure the highest level of performance in its cartridges. The enhanced rubber components in the MC 90X are said to contribute to superior sonic performance, aiming to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.
With the reimagining of the MC A90 in the form of the MC 90X, Ortofon seeks to offer a modern take on a classic design, combining cutting-edge manufacturing techniques with refined materials to meet the expectations of high-end vinyl enthusiasts.
Availability and Pricing
The Ortofon MC 90X cartridge is available now for a recommended retail Price of around 5000 €/5500 USD.
