Ortofon SPU Mono G MKII MC Cartridge

The Ortofon SPU Mono G MKII is a high-output moving-coil cartridge in the SPU housing, built exclusively for playing mono records.

True mono cartridges track only horizontally and ignore vertical groove movement — exactly what's needed to play mono pressings without the vertical noise a stereo cartridge produces on the same grooves.

Why the SPU Mono G MKII?

With 3 mV output voltage, the Mono G MKII is a high-output MC that runs on practically any MM phono input — no transformer, no separate MC stage needed. The spherical 25 µm stylus is tuned to the wider grooves of classic mono pressings.

What you hear

Mono recordings the way they were meant to be heard: without the noise and distortion a stereo cartridge produces on mono grooves. Voices and bands from the 1950s and '60s gain noticeably in focus and calm.

Who is the SPU Mono G MKII suited for?

For collectors with a notable mono collection (jazz, early rock records, historical classical recordings) and a second tonearm or interchangeable headshell for the mono cartridge. Straight talk: played on stereo pressings, a mono cartridge adds no value — it only pays off with genuine mono repertoire.

Our verdict

An uncomplicated, high-level mono SPU with no need for a transformer — for anyone with a grown mono collection, the obvious complement to a stereo system.

Technical data

• Type: MC cartridge, mono, high output (SPU design)
• Stylus: spherical, R 25 µm
• Output voltage (1 kHz, 5 cm/s): 3 mV
• Internal impedance (DC): 100 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 47 kOhm
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (+2/−1 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

Can I also play stereo records with the Mono G MKII?

Technically yes, but without stereo effect — a true mono cartridge reproduces both channels identically. It only makes sense for genuine mono repertoire, where it suppresses vertical groove noise.

Do I need a special phono stage for the Mono G MKII?

No, at 3 mV it runs on any normal MM phono input — a clear advantage over the low-output variants CG 25 Di and CG 65 Di.

Why buy the Ortofon SPU Mono G MKII at HD Zürisee?

Because we know how to cleanly integrate a second cartridge for mono records into an existing system. Mauri advises you on interchangeable headshells or a second tonearm.

Goes well with

For setup and interchangeable headshells, turntable accessories, for the groove record cleaning, and more from the world of vinyl.