v.1.9.0 updated 07/17/2026

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Empire P888

The Empire P888 is a moving magnet cartridge aimed at listeners building an affordable but honest analogue front end. Its 7.5 mV output drives any standard MM phono input without a step up device. The nude elliptical stylus profile tracks the groove at a rated force of 0.75 to 1.5 grams. The replaceable S888PE/ERD stylus has two compatible options listed in the Phono Culture database.

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Stylus: S888PE/ERD
Type: ММ
Stylus Shape: Nude Elliptical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.2 × 0.7 mil (≈5 × 17 µm) ]
Class: Entry-Level

Output Voltage: 7.5 mV
Frequency Response: 10–34 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 30 dB
Channel Balance: ≤ 2 dB
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ || 400–500 pF
Tracking Force: 0.75–1.5 g
Compliance Value: dynamic ~20 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne

Additional Info

The Empire P888 is a forgiving, easygoing MM whose nude elliptical tip favors musical flow over forensic detail. Vocals come through natural and full-bodied, dynamics feel lively and punchy, while bass stays reasonably tight. Relaxed rather than surgical tracking glides over imperfect pressings, which suits rock, soul and casual vinyl sessions. The stylus is replaceable, keeping long-term ownership simple.

Replacement styluses for Empire P888

Empire	S888E-ERD	Elliptical
LP Gear	Empire 888-series	Elliptical

Sound × Setup

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Collectors

add 01/06/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026