Hana SH MKII
Overview
The Hana SH MKII embodies the philosophy of its creator, Masao Okada-san, who has been crafting phono cartridges since 1964. This evolution of the S series combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with targeted innovations: a conical aluminum cantilever and cryogenic treatment of components. Its 2 mV output level allows direct connection to an MM preamplifier.
A refined design born from half a century of expertise
Excel Sound Corporation, established in Yokohama since 1970 by Masao Okada-san, used to produce up to 50,000 cartridges per month for Pioneer, Trio, Sansui, and Sanyo during the golden age of vinyl. Today, this expertise is focused on the Hana brand.
The Delrin body coated with black elastomer resin effectively limits resonances. A major innovation: a brass base with integrated threads makes mounting easier and brings the weight to 8.6 grams. The new conical cantilever increases rigidity while reducing the mass at the tip of the nude Shibata diamond.
Advanced technologies and cryogenic treatment
Critical parts—the yoke, pole pieces, and gold pins—benefit from cryogenic treatment that optimizes their magnetic properties. The generator uses Alnico magnets and over-wound 4N copper coils to achieve a 2 mV output. This generator, shared with the Umami Blue and ML models, ensures performance inherited from the high-end range.
Manual assembly by specialized craftsmen guarantees the consistent, characteristic Hana sound. Each cartridge is individually tested before shipping.
Broad compatibility and ease of use
The increased mass improves mechanical coupling and broadens compatibility with different tonearms. The tracking force remains at 2 grams, making it easy to replace an existing cartridge.
Compatible with any MM preamplifier thanks to its 2 mV output, the SH MKII avoids the need to invest in an MC stage. The simplified mounting and 24-carat gold-plated connectors complete a package designed with the user in mind.
Technical Specifications
Playback System
- Phono cartridge type: high-output moving coil
- Stylus: nude shibata integral
- Cantilever: conical aluminum
Electrical Performance
- Output level: 2 mV / 1 kHz
- Channel balance: > 1.5 dB / 1 kHz
- Channel separation: 28 dB / 1 kHz
- Frequency response: 15 – 32,000 Hz
- Coil impedance: 130 Ω / 1 kHz
- Recommended load impedance: 47 kΩ
Mechanical Performance
- Recommended tracking force: 2 g
- Tracking ability: 70 µm / 2 g
- Compliance at 100 Hz: 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm / dyne
General Information
- Weight: 8.6 g
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Hana SH MKII and the SL MKII?
The main distinction lies in the output level: 2 mV for the SH versus 0.4 mV for the SL. The SH uses over-winding with 15-micron copper wire to increase its output voltage, allowing direct connection to an MM preamplifier. The SL requires an MC preamplifier or a step-up transformer.
Do I need to replace my phono preamplifier to use the SH MKII?
No, if your preamplifier has an MM input with a 47 kΩ impedance, it will work perfectly. However, Hana recommends using a high-quality preamplifier to fully benefit from the performance of this high-output cartridge.
How does the conical cantilever improve performance?
The conical profile increases the rigidity of the cantilever while reducing its effective mass at the tip where the diamond is located. This geometry optimizes the transfer of groove modulations to the generator, improving
How is the cartridge mounted?
The brass base features integrated threads, eliminating the need for separate nuts. Simply screw the cartridge directly into the headshell using the supplied screws, greatly simplifying installation.
- Eco-contribution of €0.08 included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: HANA-SH-MKII