Ortofon SPU #1 S MC Cartridge

The Ortofon SPU #1 S is a low-output moving-coil cartridge in the classic SPU housing with a spherical stylus — the entry point into the pure, unamplified SPU line.

Unlike the GTX models, the #1 S has no built-in transformer. That's not a drawback but the classic SPU design: a pure, unaltered MC signal, with the gain handled by an external MC stage or transformer.

Why the SPU #1 S?

The #1 S is the most affordable way into the "true" SPU line with no built-in electronics in between. Wood-resin composite body, spherical stylus, classic bayonet housing — built the way SPU cartridges have been since the 1950s, just with today's manufacturing precision.

What you hear

The unmistakable SPU tone: warm, powerful, with a midrange that makes voices and acoustic instruments feel almost tangible. Not a high-end fine-detail resolver, but a sound character that's had fans for decades.

Who is the SPU #1 S suited for?

For newcomers to SPU sound with a medium-weight to heavy tonearm and a phono stage that handles low MC output voltages (0.18 mV). Straight talk: without a suitable phono stage or transformer, the #1 S stays silent — clarify that beforehand. Anyone who wants more resolution should reach for the elliptical version, the #1 E.

Our verdict

The most honest, most affordable entry into classic SPU sound — uncompromising in character, but dependent on a suitable phono stage.

Technical data

• Type: MC cartridge, low output (SPU design)
• Stylus: spherical, R 18 µm
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm/s): 0.18 mV
• Internal impedance (DC): 2 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 10 ohms
• Channel separation (1 kHz): 20 dB
• Stylus compliance (dynamic, lateral): 10 µm/mN
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (±3 dB)
• Tracking force: 4.0 g (3.0–5.0 g)
• Tracking angle: 20°
• Coil wire: OFC (oxygen-free copper)
• Housing: wood-resin composite, bayonet/SME universal connector
• Weight: 28 g

Frequently asked questions

Which phono stage does the SPU #1 S need?

An MC-capable phono stage with a load impedance of around 10 ohms, or a step-up transformer. At just 0.18 mV, the #1 S is a genuine low-output cartridge and too quiet on an MM input.

What's the difference between the #1 S and the #1 E?

The stylus cut: spherical on the S, elliptical on the E — electrically and mechanically both are otherwise identical. Spherical is more tolerant of setup, elliptical resolves more finely.

Why buy the Ortofon SPU #1 S at HD Zürisee?

Because we'll check beforehand whether your phono stage suits the low-output level, so you're not left with a silent cartridge. Mauri fits and aligns the cartridge at our shop in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

For the right amplification, phono preamps, for setup turntable accessories, and more from the world of vinyl.