Empire 498


Hi all - I have an Empire 498 turntable I inherited from my grandfather years ago that has been collecting dust in my crawlspace...I've been all digital with no analog for years.

Cleaned out the crawlspace for some home repair and came across it.

It's in great shape, if dusty, and I'm curious as to whether this is they type of turntable to begin collecting vinyl around or if I should just put it up for sale.

I have no clue what to ask for, and thought I'd begin my research with you guys. I read an article online about Empire turntables, and it appears the 498 is the 'rare' model of the bunch, but I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing! :)

Anyway, any knowledge you may have about these turntables would be appreciated. It has sentimental value, but if it's worth a few bucks, I may sell it, particularly since I don't own one LP.

Thanks,

- Dan
dklap

Showing 3 responses by kbuzz

I would also appreciate any info on techs who work on empires. I know ralph offers full What looks like full 208 restores at prices to match the work involved. But imtalking about something a little more basic. Like speed checks, dyna lift repairs etc.
Joe in Seattle. Your candor in the post is admirable. But care to elaborate on you opinion in greater detail. Are you saying maintenance is finnicky? Are you saying the table is too expensive to be repaired etc.
Ralph -thank you for your post. I have a 598 i am fooling around with. I may have to call upon your service when the some of the issues get too complicated.

Probably makes more sense to consider obtain and perform work on a 208 given the easier arm replacement, but -- heresey to the audio elite --I love the dyn-alift!

Another audio elite heresay, but I also think looking at a 598, if the metal and bulbs are in condition