No Better Entry-Level MC Cartridge for the Money: Ortofon Quintet Red Offers Great Dynamics, Ample Openness, and Sought-After Touch of Warmth on All Types of Music
Whether you're new to analog or simply looking for an entry-level phono cartridge that outperforms nearly every MC model in its price class, the Ortofon Quintet Red is the place to start (or continue) your love affair with vinyl. A fine introduction to both Ortofon and MC cartridges, The Absolute Sound Editors' Choice Award-winning Quintet Red features an Elliptical diamond that is cut and polished to the manufacturer's exacting standards. Its high price-to-performance ratio makes it a perfect all-rounder no matter your listening preferences. You'll hear great dynamics, ample openness, and that sought-after touch of warmth.
“It’s quick on transients, a sure-footed tracker, and a slam-dunk candidate for any thoughtful starter system.”
—Neil Gader, The Absolute Sound, Editors’ Choice Award
Incredible Performance for the Cost: Moving-Coil Cartridges Traditionally Command Higher Prices
If you've invested in a good turntable, this cartridge is a must. Do not settle for stock cartridges that will ruin your records and fail to give you the sound you deserve. Given its price, Quintet Red also represents a new accomplishment in high-end audio. Seldom, if ever, has a moving-coil cartridge of this caliber been available at this cost. Ortofon's Quintet Series is primed to become one of the most celebrated cartridge lines in recent memory.
Precise Reproduction Plus Seamless Compatibility With Most Phono Preamps and Transformers
MC Quintet Series continues Ortofon's unrelenting commitment to providing the most precise and accurate analog reproduction possible without introducing coloration. A special ABS (Acrylonitrile/Butadiene/Styrene) thermoplastic material is used in manufacturing the cartridge body. This lightweight, impact resistant material is extremely suitable for injection-molding and provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface. Neodymium magnets are implemented to achieve an optimal output. Low internal impedance makes the cartridge less sensitive to load, and therefore ensures compatibility with a wide range of preamplifiers and transformers.
Excellent Ease of Use and Setup
Mounting Quintet Red couldn't be any easier. The aluminum frame has threaded mounting holes and is fitted with the supplied 5mm or 7mm screws (depending on the thickness of your headshell). Quintet Red's right angles, straight lines, stylus visibility, and ample distance between the record surface and cartridge's bottom allow listeners to correctly mount and align the cartridge and tonearm without problem. You'll be spinning records in no time.
Channel balance at 1 kHz: < 1.5 dB
Channel separation:
1 kHz: > 21 dB
15 kHz: > 14 dB
Frequency range at - 3dB: 20 - 25.000 Hz
Frequency response 20-20.000 Hz: +/- 2.5 dB
Tracking ability at 315Hz at recommended tracking force: 65 µm
Compliance, dynamic, lateral: 15 µm/mN
Stylus type: Elliptical
Stylus tip radius: r/R 8/18 μm
Tracking force range: 2.1-2.5 g (21-25 mN)
Tracking force, recommended: 2.3 g (23 mN)
Tracking angle: 20°
Internal impedance, DC resistance: 7 Ohm
Recommended load impedance: > 20 Ohm
Cartridge body material: ABS/Aluminum
Coil wire material: Copper
Cartridge color: Red
Cartridge weight: 9 g