Tonearm or headshell for Empire 208


Okay, so I just picked up an Empire 208 on the cheap. Most everything is working, but the tonearm needs work, and the headshell on said tonearm is completely unusable (someone drilled out some plastic and it's in dimensions that are impossible to align).

I basically just need suggestions on where I could find a headshell that's actually made for the Empire tonearm, OR suggestions on tonearms that can mount onto the empire 208 or 308 without extensive modifications (I'll make height adjustments and things like that, but I'm not going to cut out an SME mounting hole).
Ag insider logo xs@2xjazzerdave

Showing 1 response by atmasphere

Jazzerdave, I've done a lot of work with that 'table.

The cartridge clip is NLA and the hardest part to find. Although the 'table is a good design, its arm is lacking compared to modern designs, and you would do well to do something to damp the platter and plinth, both of which ring like a bell.

I did set my first 208 up with an SME5 which worked fine. The Rega arm is popular if you are on a budget; IMO/IME if you are on a budget see if you can find an old Grace 707 in good condition. You may have to get a bit of aluminum and build a cover for the original holes so you can install the new arm where you want without worries.

Have Fun!