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Phono Cartridge of Choice for 78 rpm Shellac Records
Ortofon’s 2M 78 mono phono cartridge is the cartridge of choice for playback of 78 rpm shellac records.
The 2M 78 uses a spherical diamond that is perfect for playback of 78 rpm shellac records, which require a larger stylus profile, and the improved engine provides a high level of sonic accuracy. The ‘strapped output’ delivers the same output signal from both sets of pole pins. This effectively eliminates the need for mono-specific equipment, making it possible to enjoy true mono reproduction on any stereo playback system.
"Sensational shellac!" raves Tony Bolton in his Hi-Fi World review, praising the 2M 78 for its “detailed sound," "low surface noise," "fast and punchy rhythms," and "excellent tracking at the recommended 1.8 g."
Why You Should Use a Mono Cartridge for 78 rpm Mono Records
If you play a mono record with a stereo cartridge you will not achieve the same signal in the two channels due to imperfections such as crosstalk, noise, phase errors, tracking error, antiskating and distortion. This difference between the channels will result in an unstable and partially fuzzy image. A mono switch, to some extent, can improve this.
Playing the same record with a mono cartridge will have none of the aforementioned problems, as this cartridge only produces one signal, which afterwards is directed to both channels in the system. This will provide a much more forceful and stable image with a fuller sound.
Another significant advantage of using a mono cartridge to play mono records is the absence of response to vertical movement. This means that a mono cartridge is essentially impervious to the pinching effect, which comes into action when the stylus is pushed vertically upward in very narrow grooves. In addition, the response to dust, dirt and wear will be reduced substantially as the vertical component will not be heard. The final result will be a much more clean and noiseless reproduction of the mono record. These effects simply cannot be achieved merely by the use of a mono switch.
