('70-76)  $950  (pristine)

In splendid cosmetic condition and fully operational, this completely otiginal Troubador 598 was introduced in 1970 and was in production until the mid 70's.  The 598 was a radical rethink in design compared to the earlier Empire turntables.

Currently, as of this post, the included cartridge is a very excellent ElectroVoice / HiTec (by Signet) H-12 with a new stylus.   The upgraded interconnect cables are 36" Micro Mogami covered in techflex loom.  The Empire 598 is a manually operated turntable.
NOTE: One of the most important features for this turntable is the brand new cartridge sled.  This perfect and modern replacement sled is not a 3D print, it's made of injection molded plastic to the exact external geometry of the OEM sled.  Most of the original sleds were known to have deteriorated over time rendering them useless.

Other features include a two-piece platter, a self-lubricating oilite bearing, a newly designed walnut base, a new tonearm (the model 990,) an arm rest that featured a target light that made it possible to “see” where you were placing the tonearm on the record in a dark room, a strobe pattern built into the platter, and a first for Empire: a wood framed Plexiglas dust cover.
 
The Empire 598 went under three revisions during its production life.
598 – 3 speeds, with Empire’s standard pop-up 45-RPM adapter in the platter, matte finish very pale gold 3-speed strobe plate, “old” logo plate on the upper left corner of the dust cover hinge board on the base.
598 II – 3-or 2-speeds, either with Empire’s ubiquitous pop-up 45-RPM adapter in the platter, or a new 45 “turn over” adapter that sat flush on the platter usually, but when flipped over let you play 45 RPM discs. The 598II also had a matte finish, very pale gold 3-or 2-speed strobe plate, and “new” Empire backwards “R” logo plate on the upper left corner on the dust cover hinge board on the base. The instructions were updated to reference the then new 4 channel Shibata styli in the anti-skate settings chart
598 III – 2 speed only, with the new reversible center disc 45-RPM adapter, matte finished very pale gold 2-speed strobe plate and new Empire logo on the upper left corner on the dust cover hinge board on the base. The instructions were re-typed and reformatted.  
Other than being either the 2-speed or 3-speed versions, the differences are negligible and, in some cases, it seems parts and specifications are somewhat interchangeable.

Thanks to its sexy, shiny, champagne-gold design and superior build construction, these Empire turntables are universally recognized as a premium "must have" for almost every serious collector of vintage HiFi components.There were a few different versions of the belt-driven 598 (Mark II and III). Other than being either the 2-speed or 3-speed versions, the differences are negligible and, in some cases, it seems parts and specifications are somewhat interchangeable.

The features on this turntable include:
~12″ cast aluminium, two-piece platter (the drive portion is 7 lbs and 3 inches thick; once in motion, it acts as a massive flywheel which helps maintain accurate speed).
~Dynamically balanced hysteresis synchronous motor, micro-honed oilite main bearings, pneumatic suspension, and Empire’s own 990 tonearm.

All of this goodness is mounted on a heavy, real walnut plinth with a gorgeous wood-framed and crystal clear acrylic flip-up cover.  The unique hinges allow for very easy removal of the cover.  The suspension is easily adjusted via the three wingnuts that attach the platter mechanism to the plinth on the underside. Speed is incredibly accurate, wow and flutter almost non-existent, and sound is superb, with no perceptible rumble, hum or other background noise.

The very cool, very unique auto-lift function at the end of play is a clever magnetic tube that "grabs" the arm and lifts it off the record and holds it in the tube via a metal stub protruding from the pivot end of the tonearm.  While the arm does lift up. the unit does not shut off automatically. A simple press of the power button starts and stops the table.

Back in the early 70's, Empire turntables were considered “top tier” along with Rek-O-Kut, Thorens and Acoustic Research, and used as transcription players by radio stations across North America. 

From the brochure: 
“The turntable was designed to far exceed professional standards of performance… Long life and trouble-free operation are guaranteed… by an ingenious turntable design that involves only two moving parts, a powerful hysteresis synchronous motor and a heavy aluminium turntable platter individually balanced to the peak of perfection. Finally, the handsome and functional looks will enhance any room. This is the world’s most perfect record playback system. With a cast aluminium platter, fitted with the Empire 990 Tonearm.”

NOTE: Kudos to "In Sheep's Clothing"  by Eric Pye for some of the information above.

About Empire...
Empire Scientific – initially known as Audio Empire – started around 1958 as a hi-fi subdivision of a precision machine shop/manufacturer called Dyna-Empire, and was known worldwide for producing high quality turntables, cartridges, and high fidelity loudspeakers, recognized by audiophiles for their outstanding performance. The company was led for many years by Herb Horowitz, and his leadership was announced in the September 1959 issue of Audio magazine, saying Mr. Horowitz "has been appointed director of Audio Empire, high fidelity product arm of Dyna-Empire, Inc., Garden City, N.Y. Before joining Dyna-Empire, Mr. Horowitz spent many years as chief engineer of Electro-Sonic Laboratories and chief of audio products for CBS/Columbia, during which time he was responsible for a number of outstanding advances in the design of high fidelity components. Duties will include marketing and production as well as engineering supervision."

As the audio technology transformed to tape versus vinyl, the phonograph industry all but disappeared. The family sold the business, however they kept the name with the belief that camera and camcorder batteries would be a good replacement for the phonograph business. T.A.E (Trans Atlantic Electronics Inc, DBA Empire Scientific) was founded in 1978.

Empire began producing turntables in the early 60’s and over a span of almost 20 years produced roughly 6 main models the 208, 298, 398, 498, 598 and 698. Empire offered two color schemes with their turntables. The stock offering was a satin chrome or silver anodized aluminum finish while a gold colored finish was optional. The gold colored finish was denoted by the “G” designation on the model number. The gold finishes have not held up over time and many that you see today show quite a bit of wear.

In the February, 1962 issue of High Fidelity we find the first mention of the name "Empire Scientific." The company now manufactures and distributes replacement batteries for consumer/industrial electronics.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

with DP-2000 motor unit (1979)    $500

In excellent cosmetic condition, fully serviced and operating perfectly, this beautiful Denon DP-2550 is a servo-controlled, direct-drive manually operated turntable with quartz control.   

This turntable is large (21" wide x 7.5" tall x 16.5" deep) and heavy at about 21 lbs.  The plinth was constructed with heavy MDF ( medium-density fiberboard ) to minimize resonance.  A layer of walnut veneer covers the entire plinth.
NOTE: Originally, the Denon DP-2000 was basically a motor unit inside a large plinth without a tonearm.  After a Denon or aftermarket tonearm was installed, it was called the DP-2550.

This DP-2550 comes with a well-respected Grace 707 MKii tonearm.  This is a simple yet well designed precision-built instrument that just lets the virtues of any cartridge shine through.  Even though it's considered a low mass design, many users prefer installing a very high quality cartridge because of the arm's fine tolerance bearings.

As of this post, the current demo cartridge installed is a relatively  high quality Stanton L727e cartridge and like new *D72e stylus.  When viewed through our jeweler's loupe, the stylus tip appears new but it's best to say we estimate the stylus tip has at least 90% left. When it comes time to replace the stylus, the correct replacements are still available online ranging in price from about $70 - $120.
*NOTE: The Stanton D72e is called an 'elliptical' stylus.  Most elliptical stylus types are spherically shaped and are one of the more common types.  However, the D72e has been purposely polished to an elliptical cross-section.  This gives it greatly improved response, particularly at high frequencies.

The DP-2000 motor unit has Denon's tried-and-true quartz lock system. All of the circuits including quartz oscillation, frequency divider, sampling hold and strobo-flash are the same as that of the slightly higher-up Denon DP-6000.

The original factory dust cover is pristine and supported by strong metal hinges that feature adjustable spring tension scews. 

The platter comes with an aftermarket "Corkey" (cork & rubber) platter mat.  There are four unique, inverted rubber feet with additional foam casters attached to the bottom plate ; the feet are anti-resonant and slightly flexible enough to provide a gentle cushioning effect suitable to support the large and heavy weight of the turntable.  

Circuit systems of the DP-2000:-
Frequency dividing- Sampling hold- Play/stop memory- Brake time setting- Motor driving system- Comparison and brake control- 33/45 time constant change-over- Head amplifier and pulse shaping-delay

Specs:
Drive system: Direct drive by AC servo motor
Speed control: Frequency detection servo-motor phase-locked to a quartz crystal oscillator
Speed: 33.33 and 45rpm
Speed selection: Slide switch
Wow and flutter: Less than 0.015% WRMSS/N ratio: Over 75dB (DIN-B rated)
Starting time: Less than 1.5 seconds
Absolute speed accuracy: Over 99.998%

About Denon (Nippon Columbia, Japan)...
Denon’s heritage extends back to the dawn of music reproduction. Founded in 1910, Denon was both the first record company in Japan and the first audio company in Japan. Denon is one of the few companies that can trace its ancestry to both Columbia (CBS) and Deutsch Gramophone. It was the Deutsch Gramophone group that founded Denon’s parent company as Japan Gramophone, in 1910. Under the brand name “Nipponophone”, we became Japan’s first record label and produced Japan’s first record player. 
In 1971 Denon commenced sales of hi-fi audio components, including turntables, amplifiers, tuners and loudspeakers. 
Denon has always been considered as a brand apart from all the others, not content to simply make consumer electronics, they wanted to be recognized as an innovator in the design of high end audio and electronics that catered primarily to audiophiles.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

('77-'79)  SOLD

In excellent cosmetic condition, fully serviced and fully operational, this beautiful and distinctive Marantz 6100 is one of the best looking turntables in the late 70's.  It presents itself in a stately manner and, because it's a Marantz, it tends to dominate the area wherever it's placed.  The owner's manual is included.

The 6100 was considered by some to be Marantz' "affordable, entry-level" turntable but it still  features the classic styling elements so typical of Marantz equipment from this era, including the Marantz font, mixed veneer, metal finishing and elaborate feature designation on the front fascia.  
NOTE:  The 6100 was released around the same time as the 6200 and 6300 but...with the crazy high prices for the others (especially the 6300!) the Marantz 6100 is within reach of those who still want the quality, styling and allure of Marantz but at a more moderate cost.

Except for a few upgrades, every bit of this 6100 is completely original and in spectacular condition.  Even the little chrome anti-skate hanging "dongle" (which is almost always missing) is there doing its job.  Then there's the distinctive 45 RPM adapter with its white silkscreen lettering and the uniquely styled platter mat.  The original dust cover has no cracks or blemishes and was hand polished.  

The custom add-ons include:
~Aftermarket timberwood headshell with an essentially new Ortofon 2M Red cartridge & stylus (NOTE: when viewed through our jeweler's loupe, the stylus tip has absolutely no discernible wear)
~Foam/felt anti-resonant pads placed under the original feet. 
~Custom, embossed Marantz 6100 leather cover is also included.

The 6100 is a semi-automatic design with automatic return & shutoff functions. If you love the look and quality of Marantz, the 6100 is all that and more.  Just use the cueing lever to gently lower the tonearm to the record then kick back and listen to the music.  When it's over, the arm lifts, returns to the rest and the table powers off. 

The turntable features a two-speed AC servo-motor belt drive system (a new belt is installed), a precision tonearm with calibrated tracking force and anti-skating adjustment, hydraulically damped cueing and low capacitance cables. 

The physical layout of the 6100 deck is superb. Even the internal mechanisms (the stuff you can’t see inside) are thoughtfully laid out and trimmed.   
Contrary to popular misconceptions, the Model 6100 was not built in-house by Marantz.  It was designed by Marantz but was entirely built by the respected craftsmen at CEC of Japan (Chuo Denki).  It's pretty well known by this time that CEC built many fine turntables that carried famous names. 

Marantz; a different perspective...
More than any other person, Saul Marantz defined premium home entertainment. Driven by his passion for music and his accomplishments as a classical guitarist – accomplishments that led to a close friendship with Andres Segovia – he was never satisfied with the “hi fi” equipment of his day. So he built better; first in his basement, later in a factory. His talent for industrial design and his ability to infuse talented engineers like Sidney Smith and others with his vision resulted in legendary products: The Model 7 preamplifier. The Model 8 and, soon after, the 8B power amplifier. And insured that his company would remain a premiere name in the industry he helped establish.

In the '60’s. Marantz made multiple significant moves. NASA found the Model 9 stable enough to be used in tracking stations around the world as part of the famous Apollo space program. Marantz also decided to relocate to California within this decade. Most notably, in 1964, Marantz was acquired by SuperScope.

Fueled by financial backing, innovative product development and additional production facilities in Japan, Marantz experienced excessive growth and expansion in the 1970’s. It was also the decade of the famous “2200” receiver, which turned out to become the most successful receiver line in consumer electronics history.

To Marantz, perfect specifications and technical accomplishment count for nothing unless a product can unlock the power, the excitement, and the emotion of music. Their heritage of technical excellence means they can create components with the ability to communicate the scale, timbre, pitch, and dynamics—in fact, the very essence—of a recording. Every Marantz component is technically and cosmetically designed to complement the lifestyle of the listener.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

(1979)  $400  (pristine full auto, quartz-locked, direct-drive)

In perfect cosmetic and working condition, this great looking, unique Realistic Lab 500 turntable was the top of the line at the end of the 70's.  It was made in *Japan for Radio Shack (Tandy Corporation).  It is, without any doubt, one of the top two of the finest turntables they ever sold (the other being the Lab 400)...
Essentially (in our humble opinion) the Lab 500 is absolutely one of the best of the high quality, superb tables to come out of the Orient during the "Golden Age of HiFi".  

The Lab 500 was a custom design by Tandy Corp but was actually built by Mitsubishi of Japan using Tandy's specs.  This beauty is a direct drive, fully automatic, quartz locked, 2-speed turntable with a repeat function.  All the controls are on the front so, even with the dust cover lowered, it's very simple to operate.  

Most of the LAB-500's functions are electronically controlled which ultimately means fewer mechanical parts to break down or wear out.  The superb motor is a 12 pole brushless dc servo type that maintains constant speed under any potential voltage fluctuations.The platter design visually appears to make the platter look smaller in height than most, yet it's heavier, thicker and wider than most at the same time.  It's also a great looking turntable.  The design features lots of wood veneer and stunning heavy brushed aluminum.  We've had a few of these over the years and believe it to be one of the most beautiful of all.

Mounted on the original integrated headshell (designed specifically for the Lab-500) is a pristine Shure/Realistic R9000e LWS cartridge and new (correct) replacement for the N95e stylus.  The cartridge is basically the same as the famous Shure M95ED.
NOTE: The Shure M95ED was a high dollar cartridge back in the day.  There were several editions with similar specs, most still putting a squeeze on the wallet.

The S-shaped tonearm keeps the stylus of the cartridge perpendicular to the radius of the groove over the full surface of the record, which means low distortion and excellent tracking at less than 1-1/2 grams

This Lab-500 comes with a new acrylic dust cover and custom anti-resonant foam feet

*Note:
Besides the fact that the Lab 500 was built by Mitsubishi, in most cases, the majority of Realistic turntables were manufactured by C.E.C. (Chuo Denki who still exists today.)  It wasn't just Radio Shack but many other well known names like Hitachi, Marantz, Sanyo, Toshiba, etc had lots of equipment manufactured by Japanese OEM companies such as Foster/Fostex and NEC, Mitsubishi, Hitachi and C.E.C..

About Realistic/Optimus/Radio Shack/Tandy Corp...
Realistic branded vintage stereo gear is all over the place. Some of it is right up there in quality with the best of Pioneer, Sansui, etc. Also, some of it is just...ok. Their best era was during the 70's when they successfully competed head-to-head with all the big names in high fidelity. They sourced practically all their products from Japan and sometimes had the exact same components inside their gear as the competition but at a much lower price.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

(early 80's)  $325

This Thorens TD-105 MKii turntable is in excellent cosmetic condition and, of course, it's fully operational.   This unit is a semi-automatic with a friction-free velocity-sensing electronic shut-off and automatic return of the tone arm.  Photo-sensitive backlit buttons for 33 or 45 activate the platter with a touch of the finger.  
The unique strobe is tucked away inside the platter yet is easily visible when the platter starts up.

Main features:
Servo-controlled electronic belt-drive system
Sensor touch control
Low resonance tonearm tube utilizing split-wave technology
Custom-designed, fully adjustable chrome feet

One especially cool feature:  It has an electronic servo-controlled drive system and the ISOTRACK TP 22 tonearm "wand" (Note: it's called a wand because the entire arm slips out of the pivot for easy cartridge change)  Included is a very nice Grado Prestige Black cartridge and practically new stylus.  

Originally, this model was designed to attract those who wanted the "typical" Thorens quality but didn't have the bucks to buy their more expensive units.  The TD-105 is a belt-drive turntable completely designed and manufactured by the Thorens Corporation.   It has a brand new belt and the original dust cover is perfect as well.

Apparently, Thorens decided that, in order to save money, they chucked out any ideas involving wood and went with a black resin base (plinth).  In order to slightly enhance the "plasticky" look of the plinth, we upgraded the exterior panels with real mahogany veneer on the front and sides.  At Cherry Vintage Audio we always say "if ain't got any wood, it's just not as good"

About Thorens...
Here's an excellent link that does a deep dive into the origins and history of Thorens:

http://www.stefanopasini.it/images/Thor1215.pdf

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++