Skyanalog G-1 MKII

Skyanalog G-1 MKII – boron cantilever MC cartridge, thoroughly revised

A proven design, rebuilt from the suspension up

The Skyanalog G-1 MKII is the updated version of the original G-1, and the entry point into Skyanalog's revised G-series lineup. The changes are not cosmetic. Ten years of research into elastomer damping properties led directly to the Yan suspension system — consequently, the MKII is a fundamentally different instrument beneath a familiar exterior. Internal impedance has been reduced from 8 to 6 ohms, recommended tracking force dropped from 1.8 to 1.35 g, and dynamic compliance raised from 10 to 12 µm/mN. Each adjustment improves real-world usability and sonic performance.

Boron cantilever and elliptical stylus

Boron is widely regarded as the benchmark cantilever material at this level — stiff, light, and highly resistant to flex-induced distortion. Paired with an elliptical stylus ground to a 5/15 µm tip radius, the G-1 MKII retrieves considerably more groove detail than a conical profile allows. Furthermore, the elliptical contact patch is gentler on the groove walls during extended listening sessions, making it a sound long-term investment for serious vinyl collectors.

The Yan suspension system

The Yan system is the engineering centrepiece of the MKII revision. It combines a custom-grade piano wire with a proprietary rubber compound of increased rigidity, thereby controlling unwanted resonances without compromising frequency response. The stiffer damping material also enables the lower tracking force, which reduces stylus and record wear above all else. The result is a cartridge that Skyanalog describes as analytical yet warm — precise in retrieval, musical in character.

Housing and mechanical execution

The G-1 MKII's anodised aluminium body is finished using a bead-blasting process borrowed from aerospace and motorsport engineering. Thousands of ceramic beads are directed at the surface, creating a dimpled finish that work-hardens the alloy and damps structural resonances. The geometry is deliberately simple — flat front and side faces make cartridge alignment straightforward. A recommended load impedance of 200 to 470 ohms sits higher than the 100-ohm standard found on many fixed MC inputs, so an adjustable phono stage is worth considering.

Specifications

• Type: Moving Coil (MC), low output
• Cantilever: Boron
• Stylus: Elliptical, bonded
• Stylus tip radius: r/R = 5/15 µm
• Stylus angle: 20°
• Output voltage: 0.32 mV
• Internal impedance: 6 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 200–470 ohms
• Recommended tracking force: 1.35 g (range: 1.1–1.4 g)
• Dynamic compliance: 12 µm/mN
• Coil material: pure iron, square winding
• Channel separation: better than 30 dB (1 kHz)
• Suspension: Yan system
• Body: anodised aluminium, bead-blasted
• Weight: 10.7 g

Frequently asked questions

What phono stage does the Skyanalog G-1 MKII require?

The recommended load impedance of 200 to 470 ohms is higher than the 100-ohm input commonly found on fixed MC phono stages. An adjustable phono stage will therefore get the best from this cartridge. Contact Novus Audio for advice on compatible pairings.

Which tonearm suits the G-1 MKII?

At 10.7 g with a dynamic compliance of 12 µm/mN, the G-1 MKII pairs best with a tonearm of medium effective mass. The ideal system resonance sits between 8 and 12 Hz. Our team is happy to help you calculate compatibility with your existing arm.

What are the key differences between the G-1 MKI and G-1 MKII?

The MKII brings the Yan suspension system, a lower internal impedance (6 vs 8 ohms), a reduced recommended tracking force (1.35 vs 1.8 g), higher dynamic compliance (12 vs 10 µm/mN), and a bead-blasted housing finish. Together these changes represent a meaningful step forward in both engineering and sound quality.