/
v.1.9.0 updated 07/17/2026
Damn it, I tried, but mistakes happen. Check if you don't want to fall into a trap!
cartz@phonoculture.com
Damn it, I tried, but mistakes happen. Check if you don't want to fall into a trap!
cartz@phonoculture.com
Hi!
Let me explain why you need notes. Just click on me
[Test Note] Check Empire 2000E/III on my setup
Empire 1000 ZE
The Empire 1000 ZE ranks among American audiophile classics from the light tracking era. This MM cartridge pairs an elliptical stylus with a 5 mV output for any standard MM phono input. Its feather light 0.25 to 1.25 g tracking force asks for a precise tonearm. The replaceable stylus is the S1000ZE/X-ERD, and Phono Culture lists 3 compatible replacement styli.
- Class:
Audiophile
- Mounting
- standard 1/2"
- Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D)
- 7 g
- Output Voltage
- 5 mV
- Frequency Response
- 4–40 000 Hz
- Channel Separation
- 35 dB
- Recommended Load
- 47 kΩ
- Tracking Force
- 0.25–1.25 g
- VTA
- 15°
- Compliance Value
- 35 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
Additional Info
The Empire 1000 ZE leans forgiving and warm, easing sibilance and hot transients while keeping vocals natural and upfront. Its elliptical tip gives solid stereo imaging and punchy dynamics backed by a dense, full low end for rock, vintage jazz and mellow systems. Tracking control on complex, high-modulation grooves stays modest. The stylus is replaceable, with compatible inserts sold as the S1000ZE/X-ERD series.
Replacement styluses for Empire 1000 ZE
| Tonar | 333-DE | Elliptical |
| Tonar | 333-SHIBA | Shibata |
| LP Gear | S1000ZE/X | Elliptical |
Sound × Setup
Loading chart...
Collectors
Loading...
add 01/24/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026