Ortofon Kontrapunkt B [retipped]

Key Features

The generator employs coils wound from six-nines pure silver wire (99.9999% pure), chosen for its superior electrical conductivity compared to copper. Lower resistivity in the coil wire reduces losses and improves damping factor, contributing to tighter bass and improved transient accuracy. The coils are wound on an iron cross armature attached to the cantilever, with four pole pieces surrounding the coil assembly to create the magnetic field. This conventional moving coil arrangement provides low output voltage (0.47mV) requiring a dedicated MC phono stage or step-up transformer, but delivers resolution and dynamic capability beyond the reach of moving magnet designs.

The stainless steel cartridge body provides mechanical rigidity and effective damping of structural resonances, maintaining a stable platform for the delicate generator assembly. At 10g, the Kontrapunkt B suits medium-mass tonearms typically in the 10–16g effective mass range, placing the fundamental arm/cartridge resonance in the ideal 8–12Hz band. The compliance of 12µm/mN is moderate by moving coil standards, providing good compatibility with a wide range of quality tonearms.

Ortofon specified a recommended load impedance range of 5–200Ω, unusually broad for a moving coil cartridge and reflecting the Kontrapunkt B’s tolerance of different loading conditions. Many users found 100Ω provided an optimal balance, though experimentation within the specified range allows fine-tuning to personal preference and system characteristics. The low 5Ω internal impedance means loading primarily affects damping factor rather than frequency response, unlike high-impedance moving magnet designs where loading directly influences treble response.

Technical Specifications (Source: Ortofon manufacturer specifications)

• Type: Low-Output Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridge
• Generator: Iron cross armature with six-nines (99.9999%) pure silver coil wire
• Stylus Type: Nude  (Fine Line) super polished
• Stylus Radii: r/R 5/80µm (5µm lateral, 80µm vertical)
• Cantilever: magnesium/alloy?
• Output Voltage: 0.47mV at 1000Hz, 5cm/sec
• Channel Balance: <1.5dB at 1kHz
• Channel Separation: >25dB at 1kHz, >18dB at 15kHz
• Frequency Range (-3dB): 20Hz–50kHz
• Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (+2.5/-1dB)
• Tracking Ability: 80µm at 315Hz at recommended tracking force
• Compliance (Dynamic, Lateral): 12µm/mN
• Tracking Force Range: 2.2–2.7g (22–27mN)
• Recommended Tracking Force: 2.5g (25mN)
• Tracking Angle: 20°
• Internal Impedance (DC Resistance): 5Ω
• Recommended Load Impedance: 5–200Ω (100Ω typical)
• Cartridge Body Material: Stainless Steel
• Cartridge Colour: Blue
• Mounting Standard: Half-inch with threaded holes
• Cartridge Weight: 10g
• Year of Introduction: 2000
• Production Period: 2000–circa 2008 (approximate)
• Country of Origin: Denmark
• Original UK Price: £595 (circa 2000)

Important Owner’s Notes

The Kontrapunkt B requires a dedicated moving coil phono preamplifier or step-up transformer capable of amplifying its 0.47mV output to line level. Standard moving magnet phono stages lack sufficient gain and will produce inadequate volume and compromised signal-to-noise ratio. Quality MC phono stages typically provide 55–65dB of gain, whilst step-up transformers raise the signal to moving magnet levels (around 5mV) for subsequent amplification by a standard MM phono stage.

The specified load impedance range of 5–200Ω is unusually broad for a moving coil cartridge, reflecting Ortofon’s confidence in the Kontrapunkt B’s performance across varying loading conditions. Experimentation is encouraged: lower impedances (10–47Ω) typically provide tighter, more controlled sound with emphasized transient attack, whilst higher impedances (100–200Ω) may offer slightly warmer tonality with enhanced sense of air and space. The optimal setting depends on system characteristics, personal preference, and the specific MC phono stage in use.

Proper installation requires accurate tracking force setting using a reliable stylus force gauge, precise alignment using a suitable protractor (Baerwald, Löfgren, or Stevenson geometry), and appropriate VTA/SRA adjustment. The moderate compliance of 12µm/mN makes the Kontrapunkt B compatible with medium-mass tonearms but less suitable for very light (SME 3009 Series II) or very heavy (SME 3012) designs. Calculating the predicted resonance frequency before installation helps ensure optimal arm/cartridge matching.

The nude FG80 stylus is delicate and requires careful handling. The absence of a protective stylus guard with this example necessitates extra caution during installation, removal, and storage. Aftermarket stylus guards compatible with Ortofon’s mounting dimensions are available from specialist suppliers if desired. Regular cleaning using a high-quality stylus brush or gel cleaner maintains optimal performance and extends stylus life.

As a cartridge now over two decades old, prospective purchasers should be aware that even if lightly used, the stylus has aged and may exhibit some wear. However, the excellent condition noted suggests careful use and proper maintenance. Ortofon offers a refurbishment service for Kontrapunkt cartridges, allowing tired examples to be restored to factory specification, though this service availability should be confirmed directly with Ortofon or their authorized service centres.

Why Buy From Us

With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. This cartridge was tested by Andrew in our workshop.

When you buy from us you can expect:

• Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
• A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
• Transparent descriptions with no omissions — stylus guard and original box not included
• Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
• After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions

Summary

This is an excellent example of Ortofon’s highly regarded Kontrapunkt B, a moving coil cartridge that earned widespread praise for delivering engaging, musically convincing performance that set it apart from Ortofon’s typically more analytical designs.  In excellent overall condition, tested and ready for installation in a suitable tonearm and MC-compatible phono stage, this Kontrapunkt B represents an opportunity to own a significant cartridge from Ortofon’s modern era at a fraction of its original cost. Note that stylus guard and original packaging are not included. This is a single-unit listing. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.