Ortofon
SPU Royal G MKII
Best high-end cartridge for audiophiles seeking legendary analog sound precision.
Experience exquisite analog sound with the Ortofon SPU Royal G MkII, a refined evolution of the legendary SPU lineage. This phono cartridge features the unique Replicant 100 stylus and reduced tip mass for exceptionally open and detailed audio reproduction. Precision is paramount, achieved through electrum coils made from a gold and silver alloy, ensuring uncolored sound transmission. A subtly modified damping system enhances linearity and allows for a lower Vertical Tracking Force, delivering a superior listening experience. Originally released to celebrate Ortofon's 80th anniversary, it blends heritage with modern performance.
$2959.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
57
/ 1637
#57 in Turntable Accessories
Price vs Category Average
+135%
Above average
Stylus type
100
/ Nude Ortofon Replicant
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking maximum detail and precise high-frequency retrieval
- Vintage enthusiasts using compatible high-mass tonearms
- Listeners craving the classic, dynamic SPU sound signature
Who should skip it
- Shoppers looking for an entry-level or mid-range cartridge
- Owners of modern, lightweight tonearm setups
- Budget-conscious listeners lacking high-gain phono amplification
Performance breakdown
Sonic Detail
The Replicant 100 stylus extracts microscopic nuances from every vinyl groove.
Signal Purity
Electrum coils ensure a transparent, uncolored path for your analog signal.
Tracking Precision
Modified damping provides exceptional linearity across complex musical passages.
Build Integrity
The wood and resin composite body offers superior resonance control.
System Compatibility
High mass and low compliance require a robust, high-quality tonearm.
Heritage Performance
Classic SPU warmth meets modern engineering for a refined listening experience.
Key Specs
Stylus type
Nude Ortofon Replicant 100
Tracking force range
2.5-3.5 g (25-35 mN)
Output voltage
0.2 mV at 1 kHz, 5cm/sec
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz (1.5/- 0 dB)
Cartridge weight
30 g
Internal impedance
7 ohm
Coil wire material
Goldplated silver
Body material
Ground wood and resin composite
Features
- Unique Replicant 100 stylus design
- Reduced tip mass for detailed sound
- Electrum coils for uncolored transmission
- Modified damping for higher linearity
- Legendary SPU lineage with modern updates
- Gold and silver alloy coil material
- Enhanced analog listening experience
- Precision sound reproduction
What customers say
Audiophiles revere the Ortofon SPU Royal G MKII for its signature sonic performance. The cartridge delivers a rich, warm midrange and deep, powerful bass, creating a highly musical and dynamic presentation that many find deeply engaging. It successfully blends classic SPU warmth with modern detail retrieval, thanks to its high-performance stylus. While its substantial mass requires a high-mass tonearm for optimal results, owners consider this an endgame component. The overwhelming sentiment is that its unparalleled sonic quality and heirloom construction fully justify the significant investment for serious vinyl enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
This cartridge features an integrated SME-style headshell mount. It is designed specifically for tonearms that accept the standard SME bayonet connection.
Yes, as a low-output Moving Coil (MC) cartridge with an output of 0.2 mV, it requires a phono stage capable of handling MC cartridges. We recommend a phono preamp with adjustable gain and a load impedance setting of 100 ohms to match the cartridge's internal impedance.
The Replicant 100 is a highly refined, thin-profile stylus that offers a larger contact area with the record groove. This design allows for superior high-frequency retrieval and more precise tracking compared to traditional elliptical or spherical styli.
No, this cartridge is quite heavy at 30 grams and has low dynamic compliance. It is best suited for medium-to-heavy mass tonearms that can properly balance its weight and support its tracking requirements.
The electrum coils, made from a gold and silver alloy, provide excellent conductivity and signal purity. This material choice helps minimize coloration, resulting in a more transparent and neutral sound reproduction.
Thanks to the modified damping system and reduced tip mass, this model operates with a tracking force range of 2.5 to 3.5 grams. While still robust, this is generally more refined than many original SPU designs, allowing for better linearity and groove interaction.
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$2960