Ortofon SPU Classic GE MKII MC Cartridge

The Ortofon SPU Classic GE MKII is a moving-coil cartridge in the true-to-original SPU housing with a nude elliptical stylus — the higher-resolution variant of the Classic G MKII.

Same housing, same character, but with an elliptical rather than spherical cut: more contact area with the groove, finer detail in the upper registers.

Why the SPU Classic GE MKII?

The nude elliptical stylus sits directly on the cantilever and pulls noticeably more detail out of the groove than the spherical Classic G MKII, without losing the warm, powerful SPU base character.

What you hear

The familiar SPU tone — warm, powerful, with rich mids — combined with a finer, more open treble than the spherical model. Voices and acoustic instruments feel more three-dimensional.

Who is the SPU Classic GE MKII suited for?

For SPU enthusiasts with a good medium-weight to heavy tonearm who want the historical character of the series but don't want to give up resolution. Straight talk: anyone who'd rather have the more tolerant, more robust stylus is better served by the spherical Classic G MKII.

Our verdict

The Classic G MKII with more resolution: same substance, finer stylus, minimally higher price. The more fitting choice for most SPU listeners.

Technical data

• Type: MC cartridge (SPU design)
• Stylus: nude elliptical, r/R 8/18 µm
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm/s): 0.2 mV
• Internal impedance (DC): 2 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 10 ohms
• Channel separation (1 kHz): 20 dB
• Stylus compliance (lateral): 8 µm/mN
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (+3/−2 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

Is the premium over the Classic G MKII worth it?

If resolution matters to you: yes, the elliptical stylus resolves more finely. Everything else — housing, impedance, character — is identical. If your setup is less than perfectly precise, the spherical variant is more forgiving.

Which phono stage suits the Classic GE MKII?

An MC-capable phono stage with a load impedance of around 10 ohms. At 0.2 mV, the Classic GE MKII is a classic low-output MC cartridge.

Why buy the Ortofon SPU Classic GE MKII at HD Zürisee?

Because we'll tell you honestly whether the finer stylus is worth it for your system, and Mauri sets it up carefully 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.