Hana EH MkII high Output Moving Coil Cartridge

Hana EH MKII Moving Coil Cartridge

Spotlight

The Hana EH MK II opens the door to moving-coil sound without the need for a specialist phono stage. Its high-output design connects directly to a conventional moving-magnet input, so it suits a wide range of turntable systems. Furthermore, the MK II update brings technology from Hana's higher-tier cartridges into the E Series. Excel Sound's craftsmen build each one by hand in Yokohama, Japan, just as they do for the flagship Umami Black.

Output

Hana optimised the EH MK II specifically for standard moving-magnet phono inputs. It produces a healthy 2mV output from a 130-ohm coil, and it works perfectly into a conventional 47k-ohm load. Consequently, you can enjoy the texture and speed of a moving-coil design without adding a step-up transformer. Meanwhile, the Alnico magnet delivers the rich, engaging tone that has long defined the Hana sound.

Construction

For the MK II, Hana adopted the body shape of its highly regarded M Series. A precision-machined brass cap now crowns the cartridge, adding mass and improving vibration control. Indeed, the EH MK II weighs 8.6g, whereas the original E Series models weighed just 5g. This heavier build suits a wider choice of tonearms. Threaded mounting holes also simplify set-up, while an elastomeric coating tames mechanical resonance.

Cryogenics

Critical generator parts undergo cryogenic treatment, including the yoke, pole pieces and gold-plated terminal pins. The process improves material stability and lowers magnetic distortion. It also enhances conductivity and signal purity for a more natural sound. Notably, Hana uses this same treatment throughout its range, from the E Series all the way up to the Umami models.

Tracking

As the "E" suggests, the EH MK II features a synthetic elliptical stylus. An aluminium cantilever supports the stylus, and Hana recommends a tracking force of 2g. At that setting, the cartridge achieves trackability of 70µm, so it handles demanding passages with ease. Additionally, its frequency response spans 15Hz to 25kHz, while channel separation reaches 25dB at 1kHz.