Hana perfects its S Series MKII phono cartridges

The Japanese phono cartridge specialist has renewed its S Series range. The SL MKII, SH MKII and SL Mono MKII moving-coil (MC) models adopt a new design that improves vibration control. The brand has also cryogenically treated several components to offer greater linearity.

Three new Hana cartridges

Announced in September 2024, the three new Hana hi-fi cartridges are now available for €759 from Son-Vidéo.com. The Hana SL MKII, SH MKII and SL Mono MKII are the second generation of the S Series. They are presented as being high-performance, thanks to a redesigned vibration-damping system. To achieve this, Hana drew inspiration from the design developed for its top-of-the-range Hana ML model.

A brass cap has been added to the top of the cartridges. This improves resonance control and better coupling between the tonearm and cartridge. In addition, a layer of elastomer resin now covers the ABS plastic body of the Hana SL MKII, SH MKII and SL Mono MKII cartridges. This reduces vibrations, providing optimum conditions for the stylus to extract information from the grooves.

Cryogenic treatment

For over 50 years, Hana has applied its unique expertise in phono cartridge design. The Japanese brand dares to think outside the box and uses innovative methods. For example, the new Hana S Series MKII cartridges feature a cryogenically treated yoke, pole-pieces and terminal pins. This process, which involves cooling materials to extremely low temperatures, offers improved linearity in electrical and magnetic transmissions. Cryogenics reduces micro-cracks and electrical resistance, enabling signals to be transmitted without loss or interference.

Hana S Series MKII key specifications

This improved range reaffirms the manufacturer’s commitment to excellence. More reliable and powerful, the new Hana S Series MKII phono cartridges push the limits of moving-coil sound reproduction.