Ortofon 2M 78 Verso (Shellac Cartridge)

The Ortofon 2M 78 Verso is an MM cartridge for 78 rpm shellac records in the Verso design, where mounting is done via threaded studs from below. This mounting type is intended for headshells and tonearms that are screwed from underneath – for instance on various Thorens turntables.

Why the 2M 78 Verso?

Some tonearms and headshells can't be screwed from above and require mounting from below instead. That's exactly what the Verso version is for. You get the full shellac expertise of the 2M 78 – a spherical 65 µm stylus and mono generator against rumble and noise – in the form factor that fits your turntable.

What you get

Old 78s that sound like music again, mounted cleanly on a tonearm that needs under-mounting. The mono generator sums both channels and keeps disruptive vertical rumble out of the playback.

Who is the 2M 78 Verso for – and who isn't it for?

For shellac listeners whose tonearm or headshell requires mounting from below. Bottom line: If your tonearm has the regular fixing from above, get the standard 2M 78 – the Verso gives you no advantage then. And for vinyl, the 78 stylus is fundamentally the wrong choice.

Our verdict

The 2M 78 Verso is the same capable shellac specialist as the standard version – just in the form factor for tonearms with under-mounting. Anyone who needs it is glad it exists.

Technical specifications

• Cartridge type: MM (Moving Magnet), mono generator
• Mounting: Verso, threaded studs from below – e.g. Thorens
• Series: 2M 78 (for 78 rpm, shellac)
• Stylus tip: spherical
• Tip radius: 65 µm
• Output voltage: 4.0 mV
• Recommended tracking force: 1.8 g (1.6–2.0 g)
• Recommended load resistance: 47 kOhm · capacitance: 150–300 pF
• Weight: 7.2 g
• Included: cartridge, stylus brush, screwdriver, threaded studs (2× M2.5×5, 2× M2.5×7) for under-mounting, alignment gauge (the 2M packaging serves as an alignment gauge)

Frequently asked questions

When do I need the Verso version instead of the standard version?

Whenever your headshell or tonearm is screwed from below instead of from above – that's the case on some classic turntables, such as various Thorens models. If you're not sure, send us your tonearm model and we'll tell you which form factor you need.

Does the Verso sound different from the standard 2M 78?

No. The spherical 65 µm stylus and mono generator are identical, and so is the sound. The only difference is the mounting: the Verso is fitted with threaded studs from below, the standard version with screws from above. You choose based on your tonearm's mechanics, not on sound.

Why buy the Ortofon 2M 78 Verso at HD Zürisee?

Because we know the small mounting differences that otherwise ruin a purchase. We match the form factor to your turntable, advise you on shellac playback overall, and as an authorised Ortofon specialist dealer we're here for the installation too. Just send us your tonearm model, and we'll sort out the rest.

Goes well with

Goes well with: a mono-capable phono preamp, a 78-capable turntable, or other cartridges for your vinyl records.