Ortofon 2M Black Verso MM Cartridge (Under-Mount)

The Ortofon 2M Black Verso is an MM cartridge with a nude Shibata stylus that's screwed from below – via interchangeable threaded studs (2 and 2.5 mm) instead of screws from above. It's designed for tonearms such as Thorens, Revox and similar that specifically require this mounting from below.

Why the 2M Black Verso?

Because your tonearm requires it – and you can still run the series flagship. With its nude Shibata stylus and silver-plated OFC winding, the 2M Black draws resolution and dynamics out of the groove that you'd hardly credit an MM with. The Verso form factor brings exactly this cartridge to tonearms with under-mounting.

What you get

A big, gripping way of playing – voices with body, cymbals with air, driving bass – combined with mounting from below. The Black turns a good turntable into a mature analogue setup, provided the tonearm and phono stage keep up.

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

Ideal if your tonearm needs under-mounting and you want the maximum from the MM world. Bottom line: With a normal tonearm using top screws, the Verso version is unnecessary – then get the standard Black. And on a weak tonearm you throw away the Black's potential, regardless of the mounting form.

Our verdict

The series flagship for tonearms with under-mounting – the same big Black way of playing, different mechanics. If your Thorens or Revox requires it, the Verso is exactly right.

Technical specifications

• Cartridge type: MM (Moving Magnet)
• Mounting: from below, interchangeable threaded studs (2 / 2.5 mm) – e.g. Thorens, Revox
• Stylus tip: Shibata, nude
• Tip radius: r/R 6/50 µm
• Output voltage: 5 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s)
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (+2/−0 dB)
• Channel separation: 26 dB (1 kHz)
• Stylus compliance: 22 µm/mN
• Recommended tracking force: 1.5 g (1.4–1.7 g)
• Recommended load: 47 kOhm · 150–300 pF
• Recommended tonearm mass: light to medium
• Winding: silver-plated OFC copper wire
• Weight: 7.2 g
• Replacement stylus: Stylus 2M Black
• Included: cartridge, stylus brush, screwdriver, screws (2× M2.5×5, 2× M2.5×7)

Frequently asked questions

How does the Verso differ from the standard Black?

Only in the mounting: from below with threaded studs instead of from above with screws. Stylus, generator and sound are identical. The choice depends solely on what your tonearm or headshell requires mechanically.

How do I know whether my tonearm needs under-mounting?

By whether the cartridge is screwed through the headshell from below instead of from above – typical for many Thorens, Revox and quite a few integrated tonearms with a fixed fingerlift plate. If you're unsure, send us the brand and model of your turntable and we'll tell you whether you need the Verso version.

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

Because at this level, mounting and setup decide the sound – and the Verso form factor easily causes confusion. We'll clarify with you whether your tonearm needs it, and set it up on request. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil is an authorised Ortofon partner. Get in touch for advice.

Goes well with

Goes well with: a matching phono preamp, the right turntable as a foundation, and other cartridges to compare.