Gear article

Ortofon Flight Case for Concorde MKII

The Ortofon Flight Case for Concorde MKII is a professional-grade protective storage solution designed specifically for Ortofon's second-generation Concorde series phono cartridges. It features a robust, hard-shell construction with internal dimensions tailored to house two cartridges, ensuring they remain secure during transport and storage.

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Overview

The Ortofon Flight Case for Concorde MKII is an essential accessory designed to safeguard high-end phono cartridges from mechanical damage. Recognising that the Concorde MKII series represents a significant investment for professional DJs, Ortofon developed this case to provide a dedicated, secure environment for these sensitive components.

Constructed with a focus on durability, the case employs a rigid external shell and a secure latching mechanism. This design prevents the cartridges from being crushed or exposed to dust and debris while being carried in a DJ bag or transit case.

Key Features and Design

The primary function of the case is to house two Concorde MKII cartridges simultaneously. This allows performers to carry a primary pair of needles or a backup set to every gig.

Features include: - Sturdy Flight Case Construction: Built to withstand the rigours of day-to-day professional use. - Integrated Latch Lock: Provides a secure closure that prevents the case from accidentally opening during transit. - Tailored Internal Layout: The interior is shaped to hold the unique silhouette of the Concorde MKII body, preventing the units from rattling or sustaining impact damage.

Suitability and Utility

This case is specifically targeted at the professional DJ market. Because cartridges are among the most fragile parts of a turntable setup—featuring delicate styli and internal wiring—a standard soft bag is often insufficient for long-term protection. The Ortofon Flight Case serves as a 'must-have' companion for touring artists who require their gear to remain in peak working condition across multiple venues.

Comparison to Alternatives

While there are various universal cartridge cases on the market, such as those from third-party manufacturers, this specific model is optimised for the MKII form factor. Compared to general storage options like the Gear4Music Rock Fusion Drum Bag Set or instrument-specific cases like the BAM Conservatoire Violin Case, the Ortofon Flight Case is highly specialised. Its compact size ensures it fits easily into peripheral pockets of larger equipment bags without sacrificing the structural integrity found in larger flight cases.

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Frequently asked questions

How many cartridges does the Ortofon Flight Case hold?
The case is designed to hold exactly two Concorde MKII cartridges. This allows DJs to carry a complete stereo pair or a spare unit in a single container.
Is this case compatible with the original Concorde MK1 series?
While specifically designed for the Concorde MKII series, it is primarily tailored to that specific body shape. Users should check fitment for older models, though it is marketed for the MKII.
What kind of locking mechanism does it use?
The case features a built-in latch lock. This mechanical closure ensures the lid stays firmly shut even if the case is dropped or moved aggressively.
Is the exterior of the case soft or hard?
The case features a sturdy and robust flight-case style design. It is a hard-shell construction intended to resist impacts and pressure.
What is the typical price for this case?
The typical price for the Ortofon Flight Case for Concorde MKII is approximately £27. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Does the case protect against dust?
Yes, the secure latch and solid shell design help keep the cartridges clean. It is suitable for both active transport and long-term storage.
Is there space for extra styli or tools?
The manufacturer description focuses on the capacity for two Concorde MKII cartridges. It is primarily designed for the cartridge units themselves rather than bulkier maintenance tools.
Is the case water-resistant?
While the robust design protects against daily rigours, it is not described as a hermetically sealed waterproof container. It provides standard protection for professional audio environments.
How portable is the Ortofon Flight Case?
It is highly portable and designed to be 'perfect for DJs on the move.' Its compact form factor allows it to fit easily inside a DJ backpack or record bag.
Does it come with cartridges included?
No, this is a standalone protective case. The Concorde MKII cartridges must be purchased separately.
Why is a flight case necessary for cartridges?
Cartridges are precision instruments with fragile styli and cantilever assemblies. A flight case prevents these parts from being bent or snapped during transit.
What brand manufactures this case?
The case is manufactured by Ortofon, a leading brand in phono cartridge technology based in Denmark.