Ortofon Cadenza Black

Ortofon HiFi CADENZA BLACK

Reviews :

Awarded 5 Globes in Hi-Fi World, April 2010.

The Black model is using a Nude Shibata stylus with a boron cantilever. The effective mass of the stylus/cantilever system is extremely low due to the use of a very thin boron rod. This material is extremely stiff and even more lightweight than aluminium. It also uses the WRD (Wide Range Damping-system), controlling the high and low frequency damping separately. Cadenza Black is optimized for an amazing tonal neutrality, dynamics and purity of sound. It is high performing on areas like detail, consistency and sound staging.

Technical Data

Output voltage at 1 kHz 5cm/sec - 330µV

Channel balance - <0.8 dB

Channel separation at 1 kHz - >27 dB

Channel separation at 15 kHz - >20dB

Frequency range at -3 dB - 20 Hz - 60 kHz

Frequency response 20 Hz - 20 kHz - +1.5/0

Tracking ability at 315 Hz at recommended tracking force * - 90 µm

Compliance, dynamic, lateral - 16µm/mN

Stylus type - Nude Shibata

Cantilever - Boron

Stylus tip radius - r/R 6/50

Tracking force range - 2.0 - 2.5g ( 20 - 25 mN )

Tracking force recommended - 2.3g ( 23 mN )

Tracking angle - 20°

Internal impedance, DC resistance - 5 Ohm

Recommended load impedance - >10 Ohm

Cartridge body material - Stainless steel / Aluminium

Catridge colour - Black / Black

Cartridge weight - 10.7g

* Typical value

 

Hi-Fi World, April 2010

Reviewed by: Noel Keywood

Score: 5 Globes

 

Comments of Note:

"...the Black uses many moving parts of the A90..."

"Cantilever behaviour is controlled by Ortofon's wide range damping system, also used in the A90 and Cadenzas...this is responsible for the cartridge's peak-free treble. It set Ortofons apart from most rivals..."

"...making the track sound full bodied and authoritative."

"...sound....is weighty and satisfyingly rhythmic..."

"...CDs never did sound right and the Cadenza Black shows just how much was on the LP in the first place, and how a cartridge of its ability shades CD."

"The Shibata stylus...In the Cadenza Black it shimmered with delicately wrought fine detail..."

"...ability to deliver some of the finest treble I have ever heard from LP."

"...it's a cartridge of immense ability..."

"...the Black offered a beautifully smooth, svelte and expansive sound stage. It has generous stage depth and always sounds relaxed and in control of proceedings."

"If you are looking for an ultimately smooth and sophisticated sonic delivery from LP, Ortofon's new Cadenza Black is as good as it gets at what is a 'reasonable' price..."

"...the Black is a lovely cartridge..."