Ortofon SH-2 Headshell, Black

The Ortofon SH-2 is a universal headshell in black made of glass-fibre-reinforced polymer with an SME bayonet connection for S- and J-shaped tonearms.

It is the headshell for anyone who wants a second cartridge ready without investing a fortune in aluminium: 25 francs, 9.3 grams, already wired.

Why the SH-2?

Because it does the essentials right. The non-conductive material helps prevent ground loops, the raised finger lift makes lowering and lifting easier, and the colour-coded leads with gold-plated connectors are already fitted. Ortofon designs it for everyday use as well as for concentrated listening.

What you get

A light, uncomplicated headshell that allows quick cartridge changes – ideal for DJ set-ups as well as anyone who uses several cartridges in turn. At 51.41 × 21.31 mm (L × W) it is compact and fits the usual turntables.

Who is the SH-2 for?

For S- and J-shaped tonearms with a standard SME bayonet – and anyone looking for an inexpensive spare headshell. Straight talk: The SH-2 is a polymer headshell, not an aluminium heavyweight: for a high-end MC with resonance demands there are better solutions (for example the SH-4 or the LH series). And like any headshell it does not fit arms with a fixed headshell. Whether mounting screws are included is not explicitly stated by Ortofon – we will provide the matching set if needed.

Our verdict

A solid, light standard headshell at a small price. Anyone who wants to park a second cartridge or rebuild a DJ cartridge set-up cannot go wrong.

Technical data

• Type: universal headshell with SME bayonet connection, for S- and J-shaped tonearms
• Material: glass-fibre-reinforced polymer, non-conductive
• Colour: black
• Dimensions: 51.41 × 21.31 mm (L × W)
• Mounting distance: 34.9–43.9 mm
• Weight: 9.3 g without screws, 9.5 g with screws
• Wiring: pre-fitted colour-coded leads with gold-plated connectors
• Included: headshell with pre-fitted lead wires

Frequently asked questions

Does the SH-2 fit my tonearm?

It fits S- and J-shaped tonearms with a standard SME bayonet connection. Tonearms with a fixed integrated headshell – for example on Rega – are not compatible. Tell us your turntable and we will confirm the fit before you order.

What is the difference between the SH-2 and SH-4?

The SH-2 is made of glass-fibre-reinforced polymer and is non-conductive, the SH-4 of anodised aluminium. Both have an SME bayonet and weigh about the same (9.3 g and 9.2 g). The SH-2 is the more affordable choice, the SH-4 the stiffer one.

Are the lead wires already fitted?

Yes, the SH-2 comes with pre-fitted, colour-coded leads and gold-plated connectors. It suits a cartridge that you mount yourself or have mounted by us. We carry matching screws for 2M and OM cartridges as original sets.

Why buy the Ortofon SH-2 from HD Zürisee?

Because a headshell only works properly with the right mounting and alignment. We check fit with tonearm and cartridge and set everything up on request – Andy and technician Mauri in Wädenswil. Original Ortofon, honest advice.

Goes well with

Matching cartridges from Ortofon and more turntable accessories for mounting and care.