You’ll probably be fairly satisfied with the sound you get with the OM10, and if you’re looking to save money, this is certainly a good option. But I’m still a big fan of the 2M line. The Ortofon 2M Red Creates Sibilance Issues?

Well, this of course varies. If you’re upgrading from using a portable record player (whether it’s a Crosley vs Victrola is immaterial) or something like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, you’ll notice an upgrade in sound immediately and you won’t need any break in time to hear the difference in sound quality. The dynamic compliance caps at 20 CU or at 10Hz ( compliance dynamic lateral 20 µm mn). This works very well for low-mass arms. Due to the range, it is quite safe to say that asides from low-mass arms, you’ll enjoy it with medium-mass arms. First up for the listening test: the 2M Red. This stylus was already well-known to me, as many turntables come with a 2M Red pre-fitted. It’s a classic by this point; you can’t go wrong – it’s a good all-rounder that suits a wide range of musical styles, and is highly compatible with most modern moving magnet phono pre-amps. The sound is balanced with a touch of warmth, and the overall dynamics and resolution are great. I fully expect that a jump up to the 2M Blue will deliver a more engaging and exciting listening experience, but then again, the Red sets a strong precedent at this price. The result is a bold performer that's confident without being in any way overbearing. Listening to Orff’s rambunctious Carmina Burana,we can’t help but be thrilled by the energy and drive of the music. The Sabre delivers this dramatic piece with all the gusto it demands. We get explosive dynamic peaks coupled with an impressive sense of control. You may be wondering how you can set up your 2M Red, and specifically, if it comes premounted to your headshell.

I believe that the bass that the Ortofon 2M Red gives is one of the reasons that a lot of people would pass it up. It isn’t so deep- if you get what I mean. However, for those who are more about the treble, it isn’t really a problem. Bronze adds even more details and resolution but in a very evenhanded way that pays respect to all elements The one negative thing I’d say about the 2M Blue is that it truly accentuates the treble in your music. And if you’re listening to a female singer that can hit a high octave, for example, there’s a possibility that you’ll feel the sound is a bit too bright or fatiguing to your ears. Comparing with other Ortofons, the 2M Red is a typical Ortofon in its tight, agile, dynamic presentation, but is brighter than some of the vintage models, such as the F15E MkII. The OM10 would be its equivalent in the OM range, but the 2M Red’s delivery is bigger and livelier. The Super OM10 goes some way to rival its detail and dynamics, and perhaps also offers a more accessible sound for many listeners, with deeper bass and a slightly more refined top-end. Tipped elliptical stylus diamond. Here, the 2m blue stylus tip of the diamond is always mounted on a metal shank.

As my everyday living room listening setup, I consider the 2M Blue to offer the perfect balance of performance, dynamics, and affordability. The sound is far-more open than the 2M Red but without pushing to any extremes. It’s easy to enjoy the 2M Blue no matter what level of vinyl enthusiast you consider yourself to be. Go Blue and rediscover your record collection – you’ll be surprised just how much better a nude stylus can sound.Prices valid in stores (all including VAT) until close of business on 29th November 2023. (Some of these web prices are cheaper than in-store, so please mention that you've seen these offers online.) Midrange: The mid-band is also open and clear. The midrange is obviously influenced by the treble, giving texture to vocals, but doesn’t quite have the wonderful quality of the 2M Blue. The handling of sibilance on vocals is above average, in my experience.