Hana EL Low-Output MK II MC Cartridge

Hana EL Low-Output MK II MC Cartridge

Evolutionary Brilliance

Reflecting the technological advancements and sonic refinements introduced across the Hana brand, the new E Series MK II elevates both value and performance. Originally introduced in 2015, the Hana E Series quickly established itself with its “Brilliant and Gorgeous” sound, earning critical acclaim from the global audio community and achieving remarkable commercial success.

Excel Sound, the manufacturer behind Hana cartridges, expanded their line with the M Series and flagship Umami models, pushing the boundaries of analogue performance through the integration of classic Japanese craftsmanship, modern materials, and advanced engineering. The S Series MKII was the first to incorporate many of these innovations, now featured in the E Series MK II.

The “E” stands for elliptical, referencing the diamond stylus profile featured in the E Series. Retaining the classic Alnico magnet that contributes to Hana’s rich musicality, the MK II versions incorporate numerous refinements for superior sonic performance.

From the M Series, the updated body design with its brass cap adds mass for improved vibration control while providing threaded mounting for easier tonearm installation. Shared with the Umami Series and entire Hana range, critical generator components and output pins are cryogenically treated to enhance conductivity and signal purity. The updated coil winding design with 8-ohm impedance - first developed for the ML and incorporated in the SL MKII models - is now featured in the EL MK II, creating a more ideal interface with moving coil phono stages.

Echoing the entire Hana range, the E Series MK II body is finished with an elastomeric coating, enhancing resonance control while elevating its appearance.

Founded in 1970 by Masao Okada-san, Japan’s Excel Sound is one of the world’s premier phono cartridge design and manufacturing companies. Based in Yokohama, its skilled artisans handcraft every model, from the flagship Umami Black to the new E Series MK II.

By combining the essential musicality of the original E Series with proven advancements drawn from both the M Series and Umami models, the new E Series MK II embodies Hana’s next chapter of Evolutionary Brilliance.

E Series MK II

• A rigid brass cap with threaded mounting holes, combined with the body shape derived from the ML, reduces unwanted mechanical vibrations for greater trackability and musical clarity.

• The improved body incorporates elastomeric damping and a brass cap, expanding compatibility with a wider range of tonearms for enhanced bass authority and dynamic expression.

• Critical components, including the yoke, pole pieces, and gold-plated terminal pins, undergo cryogenic treatment to improve material integrity and signal transfer.

• Featuring the same Alnico-based generator used in the Hana Umami Blue and ML, optimises compatibility across a broader range of phono stages, improving performance.