Ortofon SPU GTX E MC Cartridge

The Ortofon SPU GTX E is a moving-coil cartridge in the classic SPU format with a built-in transformer and an elliptical stylus.

The SPU design dates back to the 1950s and lives on today because it solves a problem MC cartridges otherwise have: the need for a step-up transformer. On the GTX E, it sits right inside the housing — plug into the tonearm cable, done.

Why the SPU GTX E?

With 4 mV output voltage, the GTX E behaves on any MM phono input like a high-resolution MM cartridge — no separate transformer, no extra cabling. The heavy housing, cast in fiberglass composite, damps resonances and gives the presentation a rich, grounded character instead of a bright, analytical one.

What you hear

The typical SPU character: powerful, warmly voiced, with a midrange that gives substance to voices and brass. Not the ultimate resolver, but a cartridge that lets you listen relaxed for hours and reproduces jazz and classical recordings with pleasant physicality.

Who is the SPU GTX E suited for?

For listeners with an SPU-compatible tonearm (medium-weight to heavy, universal bayonet connector) who want the analog SPU sound without having to buy an extra transformer. Straight talk: anyone after maximum detail resolution is better served by the nude styli of the Cadenza or Windfeld series — the GTX E deliberately plays musical rather than analytical.

Our verdict

The pragmatic entry into SPU sound: built-in transformer, elliptical stylus, rich sound. If you want an SPU but don't want to buy an extra transformer, this is the one.

Technical data

• Type: MC cartridge with built-in transformer (SPU design)
• Stylus: elliptical, r/R 8/18 µm
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm/s): 4 mV
• Internal impedance (DC): 610 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 47 kOhm, 150–600 pF
• Channel separation (1 kHz): 20 dB
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (±3 dB)
• Tracking force: 4.0 g
• Tracking angle: 20°
• Coil wire: OFC (oxygen-free copper)
• Housing: fiberglass-reinforced plastic with built-in transformer
• Weight: 38 g

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a separate transformer for the SPU GTX E?

No. The transformer is already inside the housing, so a normal MM phono input is enough. That's the whole point of the GTX E compared to classic SPU cartridges without a built-in transformer.

Which tonearm suits the SPU GTX E?

A medium-weight to heavy tonearm with a universal SPU/bayonet connector, such as classic Ortofon, EMT, or Jelco tonearms offer. At 38 g, the GTX E isn't a lightweight — we'll check with you whether your tonearm suits it.

Why buy the Ortofon SPU GTX E at HD Zürisee?

Because we know which tonearm really brings out the SPU character, and we'll tell you honestly whether the GTX E suits your turntable. Our technician Mauri fits and aligns the cartridge properly at our shop in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

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