Hana
Hana EH/EL Moving Coil Cartridge
Best premium sound for discerning audiophiles seeking exceptional value.
The Hana EL and EH moving coil cartridges offer a significant upgrade from standard turntable cartridges. They feature a distinctive moss green body housing a sophisticated generator with an aluminum cantilever and a synthetic elliptical stylus. These cartridges are praised for their musicality, exceptional non-mechanical sound, technicolor mids, and liquid highs. They provide an easygoing musical magic and an inexorably real sound, making them a top choice for audiophiles seeking excellent value and performance.
$475.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
173
/ 1649
#173 in Turntable Accessories
Price vs Category Average
-62%
Below average
Output voltage
20.5
/ EH: mV; EL: mV
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-end sound without a premium price tag
- Vinyl enthusiasts upgrading from MM without needing a new phono stage
- Listeners prioritizing musical enjoyment and emotional connection over clinical analysis
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers or those without an MC-compatible phono preamp
- Practical users concerned about long-term maintenance and running costs
- Novice users or those preferring a simpler, less demanding setup process
Performance breakdown
Sonic Musicality
Delivers a liquid, non-mechanical sound that breathes life into every record.
Tracking Precision
Maintains stable groove contact for consistent, distortion-free playback performance.
Midrange Texture
Technicolor mids provide a rich, vibrant presence to vocal performances.
System Compatibility
Dual output options ensure a seamless match for most phono stages.
Build Integrity
Robust construction ensures longevity and reliable daily operation for audiophiles.
High-Frequency Detail
Liquid highs offer a smooth, fatigue-free listening experience across all genres.
Key Specs
Output voltage
EH: 2mV; EL: 0.5mV
Internal ohms
EH: 130Ω / 1kHz; EL: 30Ω / 1kHz
Suggested loading
EH: 47kΩ; EL: >400Ω
Weight
5.0 grams
Tracking
2.0 grams
Cantilever
Aluminum
Features
- Exceptional musicality and non-mechanical sound
- Technicolor mids and liquid highs
- Easygoing musical magic
- Terrific value for money
- Excellent tracking ability
- Durable construction
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Hana EH/EL Moving Coil Cartridge for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable value. Reviewers frequently highlight its ability to deliver a rich, detailed, and engaging audio experience often associated with much higher priced alternatives. The consensus points to a significant upgrade in sonic performance, making it a standout choice for audiophiles seeking premium sound without an exorbitant cost. This cartridge frequently exceeds expectations, providing a compelling blend of musicality and precision that truly elevates the listening experience.
Know before you buy
The primary difference is the output voltage. The EH is a high-output model designed for standard moving magnet phono stages, while the EL is a low-output model that requires a dedicated moving coil phono stage or step-up transformer.
Yes, the EL requires a phono stage capable of handling low-output moving coil cartridges. You should ensure your equipment supports a loading impedance of greater than 400 ohms for optimal performance.
The synthetic elliptical stylus provides a balanced, musical presentation that excels at extracting detail from the groove. It is specifically tuned to deliver the signature 'liquid' highs and rich midrange that the Hana series is known for.
With a weight of 5.0 grams, the Hana EH/EL is compatible with the vast majority of modern tonearms. Its standard mounting configuration makes it a straightforward upgrade for most turntable setups.
The recommended tracking force for both the EH and EL models is 2.0 grams. This weight ensures stable tracking and helps the cartridge maintain its signature musicality across your record collection.
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