The Hana S Series MkII sees Master cartridge designer Maseo Okada implement a new, more rigid tapered aluminium cantilever and effective mass reduction at the nude diamond Shibata stylus tip, which, according to the manufacturer, results in a "remarkable improvement" in transferring groove modulation from the vinyl record to the cartridge generator.
The S Series Mk II cartridges, comprising the SL, SH and SM (mono), also feature cryogenically treated critical parts, such as pure iron yoke, pole pieces, and gold terminal pins. Meanwhile, as found in the Applause Award-winning Umami Blue and ML models, the SL MK II generator incorporates an Alnico magnet and cross-coil using high-purity 30-micron copper wire with an 8Ω impedance.
The new design of the Hana S Series MkII cartridges boasts a host of benefits. It improves the signal-to-noise ratio, reduces moving mass for higher resolution and trackability (70µm/2gr ), and optimises performance for a broader range of phono stages. The SL and SH MkII cartridges offer a channel separation of 28dB/1KHz, along with a 15 - 32,000Hz frequency response.
Requiring a recommended 2-gram tracking force, the MkII S Series benefits from an improved, non-resonant body shape modelled after the Hana M Series. This is damped with a matte soft-feel black elastomeric resin paint and features a brass cap with threaded cartridge mounting fittings.
The now heavier 8.6-gram cartridges promise better coupling and expanded compatibility with a wider range of tonearms while improving bass and dynamics.
The Hana S Series MkII is available from September 23rd, priced at £645.
Visit Hana Cartridges for more information
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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