Ortofon TA 210 vs Jelco 750

... or: sometimes you pays more and you really does gets more. 

Those of you you who are unsurprised by this statement don’t need to read any further. Rather, this post is prompted by those who have asserted that the Ortofon is “just a Jelco”. I thought a note based on direct experience might be useful.

The back story: I lived for a while with the Jelco as a way to afford a TW Acustic table. In time, I replaced the Jelco with TW Acustic’s own tonearm. I was curious to dip my toes into the world of SPUs, so I reinstalled the Jelco — the TW Acustic table can run two tonearms — to run a GM E. I found the SPU to be warm and a bit fuzzy, but not at all as impressive as the SPUs I had heard at the dealer. I assumed that the magic came from running more expensive SPUs into transformers. I was happy with the TW Acustic arm and decided not to pursue things further. 

Noting my thoughts some time later to the dealer, he ventured that upgrading the tonearm would be a big step forward. I’ve learnt to trust Jeffrey. So I bought the Ortofon 210 12” and replaced the Jelco.

First appearances might disappoint. The Ortofon certainly looks like a Jelco. Even the packaging appears very similar. But then the details become apparent: first of all, the finish of the Ortofon is so much more polished — an impression that carries over to the sound. Installation is easier and more accurate because the jig provided is better. The counterweight system is similar but better suited to SPUs. The arm moves more smoothly. Simply put, it feels more expensive. 

In terms of sonics: the GM E that sounded a bit dull and crude on the Jelco has come to life. There’s a great sense of momentum and drive. The thwack of a drum stick against the rim sounds like wood against metal. The pluck of an upright bass billows. Horns blat. I see a lot more jazz, big band, soul, and funk records in my future. 

Should anyone be shocked that a tonearm that costs four times the other sounds better? Of course not. The Jelco is fine value. And I’m not for a moment saying that the Ortofon 210 is better than the Schick, or the EMT, or even Ortofon’s other arms. But saying the Ortofon is “just a Jelco” is just a bit silly.