Goldring E2 Moving Magnet Cartridge

The Goldring E2 is the middle cartridge in Goldring’s E Series of moving magnet designs, sitting between the entry-level E1 and the elliptical-tipped E3. All three share Goldring’s Magnetic Duplex Technology — a dual-magnet generator arrangement that mirrors the geometry of the original cutting head, reducing crosstalk and improving stereo separation compared to single-magnet designs. The E2 retains the E1’s bonded spherical stylus profile but upgrades to an aluminium cantilever, bringing improved stiffness-to-weight ratio and more accurate tracing through the mid and high frequencies.

Construction

The E2 uses a bonded spherical diamond stylus with a 15 µm (0.6 mil) tracking radius, mounted on an aluminium alloy cantilever. The aluminium cantilever is both stiffer and lighter than the material used in the E1, allowing the stylus to follow groove modulations more precisely — particularly during complex or dynamically demanding passages. Goldring’s Magnetic Duplex Technology employs two magnets, one per pickup coil, arranged to replicate the geometry of the original record-cutting head. This dual-magnet approach is designed to minimise crosstalk between channels and deliver cleaner stereo imaging.

Tracking and Compatibility

The E2 tracks at a recommended force of 2 g (range: 1.75–2.25 g) and has a static compliance of 20 mm/N, making it well suited to the medium- to high-mass tonearms found on most current-production turntables. The stylus angle is pre-set during manufacture, eliminating the need for horizontal tracking adjustment and ensuring consistent performance throughout the cartridge’s lifespan. Standard half-inch (12.7 mm) mounting centres allow direct fitting to virtually any headshell.

Electrical Characteristics

Output sensitivity is 3.5 mV (±3 dB at 5 cm/s lateral), suitable for any standard MM phono stage. The recommended load is 47 kΩ with 100–200 pF capacitance (150 pF nominal). Internal resistance is 470 Ω and inductance 400 mH. Channel separation is rated at 20 dB minimum at 1 kHz, with channel imbalance held to 1.5 dB maximum.

E Series Range

The Goldring E Series comprises four models sharing the same Magnetic Duplex generator but differing in stylus profile and cantilever material. The E1 pairs a spherical stylus with a basic cantilever; the E2 adds an aluminium cantilever for improved tracing; the E3 upgrades to an elliptical stylus for finer groove contact and greater high-frequency detail; and the E4 sits at the top with a nude elliptical stylus on an aluminium cantilever. The replacement stylus for the E2 is the GL0057.