Ortofon Concorde MKII Scratch Single (DJ System)

The Ortofon Concorde MKII Scratch is a DJ cartridge in Concorde format built with high output voltage and maximum groove grip, purpose-designed for scratching and back-cueing.

Where the Mix and DJ are the all-rounders, the Scratch is the specialist for the craft on the deck. 10 mV output, firmly anchored in the groove – so the stylus stays on track even when you treat it anything but gently during a backspin.

Why the Concorde MKII Scratch?

Because it's built precisely for the stress that softer systems can't handle. The high 10 mV output voltage gives the mixer plenty of level – that means punch and makes it more resistant to feedback in loud environments. The spherical stylus and the higher 4 g tracking force keep the stylus securely in the groove, even under hard backspinning. Add to that the wider, more stable MKII housing and the removable finger lift.

What you get

Uncompromising groove grip, an energetic sound with solid bass and extended highs, and a system that shrugs off daily battle use. The Scratch comes as a single with pre-mounted stylus; anyone equipping two decks reaches for the Twin set in a flight case.

Who is the Concorde MKII Scratch suited for?

For turntablists, scratch DJs and anyone who works hard on the deck and wants a cartridge that doesn't jump the groove. Straight talk: if you mostly mix and only scratch occasionally, you're better off with the cheaper Mix or DJ. And if you're after audiophile refinement, look at the Club or Elite – the Scratch is tuned for robustness, not the last nuance.

Our verdict

The specialist of the MKII range for anyone who works hard on the deck: high output, firm groove grip, robustly built. The first choice for turntablism – for pure mixing, the cheaper DJ is fine too.

Technical Data

• Type: moving magnet cartridge (MM), Concorde design with integrated headshell
• Stylus shape: spherical (R 18 µm)
• Cantilever: aluminium
• Output voltage: 10 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s) – high output
• Recommended tracking force: 4 g (range 3–5 g)
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
• Channel separation: 22 dB (1 kHz)
• Recommended load resistance: 47 kOhm
• Mounting: SME/bayonet tonearm, plug-and-play
• Weight: 18.5 g (without screws)
• What's included: 1 Concorde system with pre-mounted stylus

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Concorde MKII Scratch differ from the DJ?

The Scratch has a significantly higher output voltage at 10 mV compared to the DJ's 6 mV, and is set up with 4 g tracking force instead of 3 g. That gives it the firmer groove grip for scratching and back-cueing. The DJ is the balanced all-rounder, the Scratch the turntablism specialist.

Do I need a phono preamp for the Concorde MKII Scratch?

Yes, an MM phono input. The Scratch is a moving magnet system – so the classic phono input on your mixer or amp, not a line input like AUX. Many DJ mixers already have the right phono input with a ground clamp built in; if not, a small external phono box helps.

Why buy the Concorde MKII Scratch from HD Zürisee?

Because we know from practical experience which Concorde system suits which playing style – and tell you honestly when the Scratch is the right choice and when the Mix is enough. In Wädenswil we'll advise you on the right mixer and tonearm match, and technician Mauri handles mounting and adjustment if you'd like.

Goes well with

Goes well with: a turntable, a phono preamp, and more cartridges.