The Ortofon 2M Bronze and Goldring 1042 are two of the most popular phono cartridges in the budget-to-mid-range price range. Both cartridges offer excellent sound quality and value for money. However, there are some key differences between the two cartridges that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
Ortofon 2M Bronze
The Ortofon 2M Bronze is a moving magnet cartridge that features a nude elliptical diamond stylus. It has a warm, detailed sound with a good balance of frequencies. The 2M Bronze is also very well-built and should last for many years.
Goldring 1042
The Goldring 1042 is also a moving magnet cartridge, but it features a line contact stylus. This gives the 1042 a slightly brighter sound than the 2M Bronze, with more emphasis on the high frequencies. The Goldring 1042 is also very well-built and should last for many years.
Comparison
Here is a table comparing the two cartridges:
| Feature | Ortofon 2M Bronze | Goldring 1042 |
|---|---|---|
| Sound signature | Warm, detailed | Bright, detailed |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-22kHz |
| Output voltage | 5mV | 4mV |
| Tracking force | 1.8-2.2g | 1.5-2.0g |
| Price | $299 | $249 |
Which one is right for you?
The best way to decide which cartridge is right for you is to try them both out and see which one you prefer. If you are looking for a warm, detailed sound, then the Ortofon 2M Bronze is a good choice. If you are looking for a brighter, more detailed sound, then the Goldring 1042 is a good choice.
Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your individual preferences and the type of music you listen to. If you are not sure which cartridge to choose, I recommend trying out both the Ortofon 2M Bronze and the Goldring 1042 and seeing which one you prefer.
