Hana EL Cartridge

Very under rated cartridge at a very reasonable price

I nervously brought the EL MC Hana cartridge noting the like almost under cover brand profile and modest promotion. However two well respected non- marketeer reviewers convinced me to give it a try on my upgraded Rega RP6 and Dynavector P75 Mk3, modified Bottlehead Crackatwoa and Wayne's Whammy. Fiddling around I found the sweet spot was the P75 set to Dr Tominari’s phono enhancer mode with a restive loading of 20-50ohms. The result was superb musicality and dynamics and excellent prat (pace rhythm and timing). The 6 is running TNG Spinner 3 belt system with the additional drive fully caught by the EL. The tonality of instruments is accurately caught with fully elaborate tonal transitions. The frequency response is broad and flat digging deep into the bass. The upper violin treble is accurate with cymbals clear and natural. I will say that the EL comes across as very tight and responsive, however going by other reviews notes expect it will loosen and improve given time, thats a good thing. Coming from the significantly more pricey Ortofon Quintet Black the EL has superior dynamics and musicality which fully pulls you into the recording. However the EL lacks the superior clarity of the Black’s shibata profile. However its not a feeling of wanting to go back, its more of wanting to long term upgrade to a Hana SL or similar - once the child in the house has grown sufficiently that the expensive upgrade is not at risk! One other note is that the rounder profile does not dig deep in the groove meaning that well worn favourites or recycles are shown as such, there is no cover up. The effect of this excellent cartridge is to lay out clearly the differences between vinyl and digital - I have a midrange dac while offering great clarity and soundstage its simply not in the game regarding musicality and involvement - it leaves you looking at a supposedly retired format very strongly feeling I want more. Throughly reccomended. Thanks extended to Bensan of Rapallo for his expert guidance and patience.