Ortofon Samba Low Output MC Phono Cartridge

A Briefing on Ortofon Moving Coil Cartridges
Nothing demonstrates more convincingly Ortofon´s commitment to be the world´s last cartridge manufacturer than the ongoing development of new state-of-the-art models, and Ortofon will continue to refine upon the level of sound quality attainable from analogue recordings. Since 1948 Ortofon has introduced about 100 different moving coil models, and more are to follow. Contrary to other types of phono catridges, the moving coil principle is not suited for mass production. Each of the four coils contains between 11 an 24 turns of wire, depending on model, and has to be wound by hand under a microscope. The wire itself is much thinner than a human hair. The high degree of craftsmanship involved is one of the "secrets" behind Ortofon's reputation.

Why an Ortofon Moving Coil?
Many have asked the question: Why is the sound of a moving coil cartridge so superior to that of a traditional magnetic: The answer in one word is linearity. The patented Ortofon low-impedance, low-output design is inherently linear over the entire audible range. This coupled with unequalled tracking ability and unique diamond profiles combines to deliver a sound previously deemed unattainable. The MC Tango, MC Samba and MC Salsa is a direct result of our endeavours. MC Tango has an elliptical diamond which is cut and polished to Ortofon’s standards, and the output is 0.5 mV. The MC Tango is our MC entry level cartridge with a very high cost/performance ratio.

MC Samba and MC Salsa have a tiny, nude Elliptical or Fine Line diamond, mounted on a very light and rigid cantilever. This results in low equivalent stylus tip mass and cantilever compliance on 14 and 15 μm/mN, which means that MC Samba and MC Salsa will give excellent results with virtually any tone arm. The armature has been designed as a tiny lightweight cross, and the coils are mounted at exactly 90 degree to each other (just like the walls of the record groove), which is improving the channel separation. The magnet and improved damping system has allowed its natural pivotal point to be placed immediately behind the armature, this is giving an extremely precise moving system. Besides, we have increased the output voltage of the Samba to 0.3 mV and the MC Salsa to 0.38 mV. Finally, the name and design is bonded together: The MC Tango is presented in a blue transparent house, the MC Samba is in a yellow transparent house, and the MC Salsa is in an orange transparent house. So, if you like the idea of a moving coil cartridge, but don't like the idea of spending a small fortune, the MC Samba, MC Salsa or the MC Tango will be an excellent choice.

Details on the Ortofon Samba
The MC Samba is a great foray into the world of low output Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, featuring a nude elliptical stylus. The MC Samba has been created to provide a high level of compatibility with virtually any tonearm and will yield excellent results with any system.

Technical Data for the Ortofon Tango, Samba, and Salsa



Ortofon MC Cartridge Brochure


Ortofon Dance Series Brochure


Hi-Fi News Review of the Ortofon Tango, Salsa, and Samba


Hi-Fi World Review of the Ortofon Samba and Salsa


Large View of the Ortofon MC Samba

Details on Ortofon Cartridge and Stylus Installation and Maintenance

A Brief History of Ortofon