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Restored Dual vs. Restored Technics

My current turntable is a serviced Technics SL-1400 mk2 semi auto with a VM95ML cart. It sounds very nice. However, I have a real itch for a restored Dual 1229 from bill at fixmydual.com …not only for the convenience of an automatic, but to experience an idler drive table built to last decades. Bill recommends an ortofon OM series cart and I already have an OM20 stylus I can use.

However.. the Technics has better specs for W/F and rumble. The money I don’t spend on the dual could upgrade my cart, or phono preamp.

I’m torn. Keep my current table? Go for a classic dual restored by a true master? Try to find an SL-1600 mk2 to combine the best of both?

dtrandall
erik_squires
16,052 posts
 

Build wise, the old Dual won't perform nearly as well as a Pro-Ject. 

So, given a choice:

 

Technics > Pro-Ject > Restored Dual

secretguy
1,697 posts
 

I'd take the 1229 10 times out of 10.

dtrandall OP
43 posts
 

Could you explain why you'd rather have the dual? Is it for the way it sounds? The way it works? The durability?

theflattire
170 posts
 

One reason I’d go Dual is if you run high compliance carts and need a low mass arm. I use a 1218 at work with a Shure V15 TIII.

Between the 1400 and 1229 I’d probably take the Dual if only for aesthetics. The 1400 is sort of low on the Technics totem pole while the Dual is well, a Dual.

grislybutter
2,989 posts
 

what do you get with the auto that you don't get with the semi-auto? I think the biggest weakness of the Dual is how it starts playing, the zigzaggy weirdness which is prone to break. I can't stand it. I personally prefer 100% manual tables. 

As for the looks, the Dual is infinitely better looking than the Technics, for my taste.

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