Ortofon SPU N Adapter – Headshell Adapter

The Ortofon SPU N Adapter is a headshell adapter made of blue anodised aluminium for the SPU models Royal N, Classic N and Classic NE.

The SPU is a classic with rough edges – with the N models quite literally: without this small adapter you cannot get them onto a headshell.

Why the SPU N Adapter?

The N versions of the SPU need an adapter so they can be fixed to a headshell. It is a precision part from the Ortofon range, not a random item from the hobby box – and that is exactly what matters when an MC cartridge with this history is to sit cleanly and firmly.

What you get

A compact aluminium part measuring 18 × 18 × 5 mm and weighing 2.9 g. It is so light that it hardly affects your tonearm’s effective mass – and at least you can see the blue if you misplace it.

Who is the SPU N Adapter for?

For owners of an SPU Royal N, Classic N or Classic NE who want to mount the cartridge on a headshell. Straight talk: Not every SPU needs this adapter: it is meant for the N models. Whether it suits your cartridge and headshell is something we clarify before you buy – SPU mounting is no place for experiments, and a heavy cartridge needs a tonearm that can handle it.

Our verdict

Fifty-nine francs for a part without which your SPU N stays in its box. Little material, big responsibility – hence original instead of improvisation.

Technical data

• Type: headshell adapter for SPU N cartridges
• Compatible with: SPU Royal N, SPU Classic N, SPU Classic NE
• Material: aluminium, blue
• Dimensions: 18 × 18 × 5 mm
• Weight: 2.9 g
• Included: 1 SPU N Adapter

Frequently asked questions

Which cartridges does the SPU N Adapter work with?

Ortofon names the SPU Royal N, the SPU Classic N and the SPU Classic NE. Retailers also list it for further N models. Before you order, send us your cartridge – we confirm the fit so you do not have to try it out.

What exactly does the adapter do?

It is a headshell adapter: it connects the SPU N cartridge to a headshell on which you want to run it. Mounting details depend on your headshell. We are happy to show you – or mount and adjust the cartridge right here.

How heavy is the adapter?

2.9 g with dimensions of 18 × 18 × 5 mm. The total weight of your cartridge is mainly determined by the SPU itself, though. If you are unsure whether your tonearm can carry the weight including the adapter, we will work out the effective mass with you.

Why buy the Ortofon SPU N Adapter from HD Zürisee?

Because SPU mounting takes experience and we have it. We check fit with tonearm and headshell, mount on request and set everything up – Andy and technician Mauri in Wädenswil. Original Ortofon, honest advice, even when the answer is “no, not on this arm”.

Goes well with

Matching SPU-family cartridges from Ortofon and more turntable accessories for mounting.