v.1.9.0 updated 07/17/2026

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[Test Note] Check Empire 2000E/III on my setup

Empire 4000/DIII

The Empire 4000/DIII is a moving iron (MI) cartridge built to a High-End standard. Its 3 mV output suits any standard MM phono input without extra gain. The replaceable S4000D/III stylus carries a nude elliptical diamond, and the specified tracking force runs from 0.75 to 1.25 grams with 1.0 gram nominal.

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Stylus: S4000D/III
Type: МI
Stylus Shape: Nude Elliptical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.2×0.7 mil (≈5.1×17.8 µm) ]
Class: High-End

Mounting: standard 1/2"
Output Voltage: 3 mV
Frequency Response: 5–50 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 35 dB
Recommended Load: 100 kΩ
Tracking Force: 0.75–1.25 g (nominal 1.0 g)
Compliance Value: dynamic ~30 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne

Additional Info

The Empire 4000/DIII is refined and forgiving with a natural, easygoing balance. Its nude elliptical tip delivers detailed, well-imaged sound without harshness, letting vocals breathe naturally while dynamics stay composed rather than aggressive. The relaxed, musical presentation suits vocal jazz, classic rock and easy listening sessions where long-term comfort matters more than clinical precision.

Sound × Setup

Detail

78%

IGD Control

72%

Noise Suppression

74%

Dynamics—Attack

75%

Soundstage/Imaging

76%

Bass Density

73%

Vocals/Midrange

77%

Forgiving Character

79%

Tonearm mass light 100%

medium 0%·heavy 0%

Capacitance up to 100 pF 60%

100-200 pF 30%·from 200 pF 10%

Phono gain 39–42 dB 50%

35–38 dB 0%·43–46 dB 50%

Empire 4000/DIII (MI) — high-output MC (~5mV). Requires light tonearm (<12g), 43–46 dB gain, low capacitance (<100pF). Optimal with low-mass arms (Rega, SME). Avoid heavy tonearms; risk tracking issues. Excellent detail, needs proper loading.

Collectors

add 01/08/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026