A modern classic for today’s vinyl enthusiast, the Ortofon MC 90X is now available.
Ortofon A/S, the Danish pick-up cartridge specialists, has relaunched a version of the company’s MC A90 cartridge, which the maker says once revolutionised analogue sound reproduction and set new standards for precision and musicality.
Now featuring improved rubber dampers and a striking blue finish, the MC 90X is a limited edition Ortofon MC cartridge, which continues the legacy of its predecessor designed for exceptional precision, clarity, and innovation.
MC 90X in detail
The MC 90X is a striking high-end cartridge, based on the classic MC A90 design, but modernised with new technologies and a striking blue finish. Designed to bring out the depth and detail in every record, this limited-edition cartridge builds on Ortofon’s expertise in analogue sound reproduction while introducing improved rubber dampers and a new blue finish. Its stainless-steel structure, crafted using Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology, is designed to provide excellent rigidity and resonance control.
The Wide Range Damping system, Field Stabilizing Element, and Ortofon Replicant 100 diamond stylus work together to capture the full depth and nuance of the finest vinyl pressings. Each cartridge is hand-assembled and undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure an authentic and immersive vinyl experience. With a richly detailed midrange and extended frequency response, the MC 90X stays true to the original recording, offering a refined listening experience that continues the legacy of the MC A90, says the product’s creator.
Stand out
One of the MC 90X’s standout features is the Wide Range Damping (WRD) system, which ensures strong linear frequency response and an extended upper frequency range. This system employs a platinum disc placed between two specially designed rubber absorbers, providing superior tracking and effective resonance control across the entire frequency spectrum.
Ortofon’s in-house developed rubber compounds further enhance performance, optimising damping characteristics to minimise distortion and improve sound clarity. These innovations make the MC 90X a high-performance cartridge, delivering exceptional detail, precision, and an unparalleled listening experience.
Achieving linear reproduction with a wide frequency range and optimal tracking requires a diamond that closely mimics the original cutting stylus. The Ortofon MC 90X features the Replicant 100 diamond, known for its thin, light profile and large contact surface, allowing it to trace grooves with precision. Combined with a special polishing process and a Boron cantilever, this design ensures transparency, speed and responsiveness, delivering sound quality for an immersive audio experience.
At the heart of the MC 90X is a revolutionary Selective Laser Melting (SLM) manufacturing process. This high-precision technique uses laser-welding of micro particles to create a one-piece body. This enhances rigidity, reduces unwanted resonances and ensures optimal cartridge mass, resulting in strong sound quality and performance. For an exceptional signal transmission, the coil wires are made of the special alloy Aucurum, a gold-plated 6NX oxygen-free copper. The product is available to the trade from Henley Audio.
Key Features
- Stainless-steel Selective Laser Melting (SLM) body in striking blue finish
- Ortofon Field Stabilizing Element (FSE) technology
- Ortofon Wide Range Damping (WRD) technology
- Ortofon Replicant 100 Diamond stylus
- Updated Ortofon Rubber Dampers