Ortofon OM 5S MM Cartridge

The Ortofon OM 5S is a moving-magnet cartridge from the legendary OM series with a spherical diamond stylus – the interchangeable system that first showed many listeners just how simple good sound can be.

Why the OM 5S?

Ortofon's OM series has been around for decades for one simple reason: the interchangeable headshell system works. The OM 5S is the base of the series – a solid entry point for anyone with a turntable and universal tonearm who wants to invest in good analogue sound without detours. The spherical stylus is uncomplicated to handle and forgives a tracking force that isn't perfectly dialed in.

What you'll hear

A warm, unfussy basic character with solid channel separation – the OM 5S doesn't push itself forward, it just plays reliably. Just right for entry-level turntables and as an honest second cartridge.

Who it's for (straight talk)

If you're after audiophile top-tier performance, look further up the OM or SPU series. If you want a reliable all-rounder for everyday use that still gets an affordable replacement stylus years down the line: right here.

Our verdict

No sonic miracle, but an honest classic with HD Zürisee's blessing – in our range for decades because it simply works.

Technical specifications

• Principle: Moving Magnet (MM)
• Output voltage: 4.5 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s)
• Channel separation: 20 dB (1 kHz)
• Channel balance: 2 dB (1 kHz)
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
• Stylus tip: spherical, R 18 µm
• Recommended tracking force: 1.8 g
• Internal resistance: 750 ohms
• Inductance: 450 mH
• Recommended load resistance: 47 kOhm
• Recommended load capacitance: 200–500 pF
• Weight: 5 g (with counterweight) / 2.5 g (without)
• Replacement stylus: Stylus 5S
• Mount: universal (1/2" standard)

Frequently asked questions

Does the OM 5S fit any tonearm?
It fits any tonearm with a 1/2" universal headshell, as found on most hi-fi turntables. For a fixed headshell (as on some DJ decks), you'll need a Concorde cartridge instead.

Can I upgrade to a better stylus later?
Yes – the whole OM system shares the same body, so you just swap the stylus for a higher-grade model (e.g. 5E, 10, 20) for a virtually new cartridge experience.

How often does the stylus need replacing?
We recommend a new stylus after roughly 500–800 hours of play, to protect both your vinyl and your sound.

Why buy the OM 5S from HD Zürisee?
We've carried Ortofon for years as a specialist dealer, advise you on the right tracking force and alignment, and help in person in Wädenswil whenever needed.

Goes well with

A Stylus 5S replacement stylus for later, or a look at the OM 5E upgrade with its elliptical stylus.

Questions about mounting or alignment? Call us (+41 44 680 22 00), message us on WhatsApp (076 534 22 00), or drop by – HD Zürisee is happy to help.