Genuine Pro-Ject Replacement Counterweight
The Pro-Ject 88g Counterweight (023) is a genuine factory replacement and upgrade counterweight for Pro-Ject tonearms that use the 023-series mount. At 88g, this counterweight is designed to balance a mid-to-high compliance cartridge on the relevant Pro-Ject EVO tonearms, ensuring correct vertical tracking angle and accurate tracking force are maintained throughout playback.
Why Counterweight Weight Matters
A tonearm counterweight serves two critical functions: it balances the tonearm to a state of neutral equilibrium before applying the set downforce via the anti-skate mechanism, and it sets the effective stylus tracking force. Using the correct counterweight mass for your cartridge is essential. Too light a counterweight cannot bring a heavier cartridge into balance; too heavy a counterweight reduces the fine adjustment range and can make setting precise tracking force difficult. The 88g weight of this part places it in the mid-to-high range of Pro-Ject's counterweight range, suited to cartridges that require the tonearm's centre of gravity to be positioned further from the pivot to achieve balance.
Construction and Damping
Consistent with Pro-Ject's EVO tonearm series, the 023-series counterweight is machined from aluminium and incorporates a TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) damping insert. The TPE insert absorbs micro-vibrations that could otherwise travel through the tonearm structure, contributing to a quieter noise floor and more accurate groove tracing.
Compatibility
The 023 counterweight is compatible with Pro-Ject EVO series tonearms that use the 023 counterweight mount. If you are unsure which counterweight your tonearm requires, the part number is typically printed on the original counterweight or listed in your tonearm's documentation. Fitting the correct part number ensures the threaded shaft and fixing mechanism are the correct specification.