I've owned 1009(f?) A TANK. Needed full restoration, contacted well known Dr. Dual, (way more money than I could afford). I only own the drop 45 rpm spindle I bought on Ebay. It's one of those things where with head tossed to side, I heave a sigh.....
Love my $58.00 1219 with a Shure V15-III cartridge. Cleaned the old hard grease out and lubed with quality fishing reel grease and viola it's like new. I've had it now 5 years and it's going strong.
The 1219 was the predecessor to the 1229, made from 1969-1971. It came in two iterations. In the v1 version, the cuing lever does not work in multi-play mode. The 1219 is the same as the 1229, minus the built-in strobe. Many of the parts are interchangeable. The 1229 also came in a 1229Q version... Q for quadraphonic. The only real difference was updated tonearm wires to support the high frequency pilot signal needed to decode quad playback.
You can't beat any of these Duals: 1009, 1019, 1219, 1229 (all idler drive). I also like the 701, a direct drive model. I have a copy of each of the aforementioned units.
Can never go wrong with a Technics in good shape. The amount of headaches you avoid having a swappable headshell, adjustable VTA, and the most reliable speed you could ask for is worth every penny. Only thing that sucks with the older models is the attached RCA.
I grew up with a Dual 1229 and was so sad when it bit the dust in 1985! I also loved that it muted during the automatic cycle and the noises that the unit itself made while it cycled! Peace.
My first table was a BSR. 1980 bought a used Duals 1216. I still have it and love it. Since then two 1215S, two 1216, 1218, 1225, 1226, 1229, and two 506 Duals. Love them all
I’ve had a Marantz 6300 since new in 1977, it is like new and with a good cartridge it hasn’t let me down. Friends are always recommending tables in the thousands, maybe I’ll buy one if the Marantz dies. Great videos, thanks.
The 1219 is the direct predecessor of the 1229. It is about 97 % identical to the 1229. Especially if you compare the latest 1219 to the very first 1229.
My Dual 701 turntable is great but I have also a Dual 1219, Linn Sondek LP-12 I visited the factory as a dealer in 1983 and all my turntables work great. I have hundreds of LP's in great shape. Working at a stereo store was great.
Great post! I was a QA tech at the Dual U.S. main distribution location in Mount Vernon, N.Y. back in the late 70's. One of the main features on their turntables was how accurately you could balance the tone arm. At audio shows we would mount the turntable upside down on a rack and play a record. The tone arms were so finely balanced that there was minimal wear on your vinyl. Beautifully engineered.
My Dual 1218 still works. I purchased it in 1974. When a wrapped record wouldn't play on other tables, the Dual was there to show that it could be played.
I was cleaning out the attic and found my Technics SL-Q202 with the Stanton 680 EE cartridge. I haven't seen it in 25 years and thought I may have gotten rid of it during the CD era. Dust cover is intact and I also found a big box of albums. I haven't found much info on this unit so I don't know its value or quality level. After a few days of cleaning and inspection, it sounds pretty darn good with my Marantz 2225 + 1973 Klipsch Heresys paired with a JBL Sub I bought a couple years ago (it's the only piece of my system made in this century...) Love your channel and videos. Rock on!
I have a SL-D202. They look like twin sister turntables. Great quality and does yeoman's work. Not high end, not low end but competent. I bought mine in 1981.
Still have the Dual 1229 that I bought in 1972 when I was 18. I love this turntable not only because it’s built extremely well but also has a very high degree of sensitivity. It has the counter weight, of course, for balancing the tone arm, anti-skate, a light strobe function for fine tuning record speed, three settings- 45 and 78 are the two that aren’t normally used and a toggle that allows you to manually very softly drop the tone arm onto the LP.
Very cool that you are local only - cheers to your local customers too - when I get the chance to travel to that part of the country, I will definitely stop in
I really enjoy your content. I’m 60 years old I bought my first turntable when I was about 15 I have to talk real quiet now because it was made by RadioShack but it has lasted all these years and I still use it quite regularly. I have a Newmark for my second turntable it’s got neutral reverse and 78! I need a new cartridge/needle assembly for it. I think I should call you.
Thank you! Your the only normal record guy on utube I’ve been running a PL-41 for years now just wanted to see if there was a vintage player I was missing out on. Once again, thanks for the down to earth video.
I'm using a DUAL 704 Electronic Direct Drive, with a Nagaoka JT322 cart with a Shibata Naked diamond stylus. In total it cost me less then €500 and I love it! I have a custom made acrylic dust cover on it as well, looks so good. I did go from vinyl to CD during the 90's, but now I use both as they both have their strong and weak points. The thing about vinyl is that it takes more time and effort to properly use it (starts with cleaning any new record), which in turn makes you really take time to sit down and listen to the music.
Cool! I have an SL-110 with an SME arm and Shure V15 type III pickup. I bought it in 1970's after I got my B&W DM2A's at their Worthing shop. My dad was friend's with John Bowers and Roy Wilkins and worked for B&W for a short time.
I am still using the family Philips 312 turntable from 1979. Only issue it ever had was a fractured rca connector. Replaced the cables and sounds better than new.
I sold most of the tables you reviewed when I worked for a couple of shops in Harvard square from 72-75. Thorens and Technics were the top picks for people with money. The AR was a best-seller because of price/performance.
I just got a very old but in great condition Rek O Kut T12 with a Shure 232 arm. It has that low idler noise floor but this beast is so dynamic and forceful in its music presentation. I'm amazed.
I bought a Dual 1246 that didn't work for 25 bucks. I downloaded the repair manual and read it and decided to try to repair it and I did. It now works like a charm. I only had to put about 80 bucks of parts into it (a new cartridge/stylus and a belt). They are very complicated underneath and all those levers and parts can scare most but I figured if I can't repair it, I had some spare parts for another one.🎹🎹🎷🎷🪕🎻🎸🥁🥁🎧🎤🔊
You might also wish to try the Rega planar 2 and 3. These are very simple, just a motor, a glass platter and a VERY good tone arm. Made in England and sound great.
Currently using a Planar 2 from 1978 with cherry wood framing with a Nagaoka MP-110 cart and can confirm! It's not nearly as detailed sounding as my Marantz 6170 but it sounds way more powerful and "musical". And the motor is practically indestructible! I'm never going to stop using my Rega! :D
I appreciate your connection with turntables and that "connection" to vinyl. Its something I was blessed to grow up with and it sounds better with the right turntable and amp/speakers. I have a Fluance RT83 with upgraded plate and Ortofon Blue cartridge. Staying with heritage and media that has so much historic meaning in history is so much more than many in our electronically advanced society will truly enjoy. Thanks for sharing!
I’ve owned many high end and vintage turntables and my FAVORITE one was always the AR XA due to it’s SIMPLICITY and tone arms that would virtually float down towards the vinyl.
Anthony you are correct!...I've been doing this since the 70s....your statement follows basic principles! always buy the best!!! it holds its values....
I had my Dual 510 turntable completely rebuilt about 8 years ago by your guy Jim out there in Des. Moines new Walnut base plays like new again..Shure cart..He does great work..and so do you..I’m one of those guys you talk about who have returned to the HiFi hobby with a vengeance..I live Colorado (Rocky Mountains). There aren’t many HiFi shops around here, thank god for the Internet…but I got a say, You shop looks worthy of a road trip..Currently hunting a classic Marantz receiver…looking forward to you Top Five Marantz video..I have a feeling I know your favorite..keep up the great work.I’ll be watching.
Thinkin I need to add a Technics SL 1200 to my menagerie…that’s one of those iconic pieces of gear. Oh and the tech who built my 510 was Bill not Jim ..oh well.
I’m not a real music expert so I don’t have any of the turn tables you mentioned but I chanced upon your channel when you were picking the best receivers for under $300. I found it very interesting and I do have a Sony purchased in 71 or 72 but it’s not the one you mentioned. I ha 20:39 ve a Gerrard turn table with it and they both work great for me. I’m sure they aren’t any where equal to to the ones you have picked but I sure enjoy you show. Keep up the great videos. Thanks
Duals were my favorite. Before them I had a BSR and a Sanyo. My last was a Pioneer linear, but it only lasted 4-5 years before the motorized arm stopped working.
The AR was my first turntable in 1972 and still my fave. Still working after heavy use for 50 years. I got other turntables but kept coming back to these. I have 2 now.
Picked up a Hitachi PS-48 a year ago for a fair price on looks for my spare listening room. Love this TT so much I actually got rid of my Rega.... Love the sound and appearance of vintage....just recently upgraded to a Grado Opus Cartridge and could not be happier 👍
Currently my favorite turntable to use is my Realistic Elac Miracord 46. It's fully automatic (I tend to like semi-automatic in other TTs) and it's an idler wheel (I was previously a direct drive guy). I bought it at Goodwill for $5 and pulled it out of a bin piece by piece. I had to get a skate and spindle for it. Someone must have cleaned and regreased it because it ran perfectly when I got it, except one of the metal pieces underneath was bent and the start up wasn't working right. I bent the piece back into shape to match the piece next to it and it ran perfectly after that. It's fun to use. The tone arm is short and lifts at an awkward looking angle, but lands perfectly every time. Push the button and walk away. It's a great machine.
Automatics are the only turntables I have ever owned, the start, play, shutoff is the only way to go. Got my first Dual 1218 in 1970 now at 71 years old I don’t want to fuss with a non automatic turntable.
I have a very nice Technics SL-D2 that I got for free. also my pioneer single play bought in hong kong 1966. I also am a broadcast engineer so got to keep the old gates, etc tables going. a tip. clean the rubber parts with alcohol.
i'm sure you've covered some great deck's I have a 1968 goldring lenco GL75 made in switzerland, I built it over a 30 year period and couldn't find most parts untill ebay came online, it runs 16-33-45 and 78, it runs like a swiss watch and I love the fact that it took 30 years to finally finish it, i'm not an audiophile I just like good music and it meets my need's, I hope everyone else is out there that loves the deck they have, DuaL also marketed the same deck under their own name which I think show's how good it still is, really enjoyed the video
Excellent - Thank you! Your list has some of mine on it too. The AR, Dual 1229 and Empire. Add add two others have mentioned. Garrard 301 and 401 and one you'll hate for its service complexity but when restored, a great unit; Yamaha PX-2 linear. The Technics SP-15 and 25 are great as well but they are starting to have capacitor and solder joint issues, eek!
Great video... I have I think 9 turntables hooked up to something around here... I love the too! I was happy to see a Dual on your list... my first GOOD turntable in the early 1970s... dependable... and played well ... ex wife got it lol! I purchased one several years ago in great shape ... a 1225. And yep I stack... especially old Christmas records!!!! Lol! Again, Great show!
Great video. I live very close to Skylabs and have been there a few times over the past few years. Always a welcome greeting, happy to chat and answer questions, and the "bench" is in plain sight. They do it all! My 2 turntables are a Technics SL1200 MK2 and a 1972 AR XA which I rehabbed myself. One is a fancy vintage deal, the other probably the world's simplest turntable. Love em both for different reasons.
New to channel. So far alot of good stuff. I've had a few TT s over the years I've been looking to get an AR to finish out a complete vintage AR system . My favorite Tt tho is my Phillips GA 312 . It's just enough of everything and sounds great with all my vintage equipment . I'll keep watching .
Realistic Lab-400. Much mystery behind who produced it but it's a rock soild performer. Just installed an Ortifon Blue cartridge and it's a great TT. ❤
Good Grief! I found this list pretty amazing. My path too has followed simplicity, design, and manual operation. But, with all the turntables available during these years, I have only had a relative few, but what a list, as least as evidenced by what is covered here. 1964, my first real turntable, ARxa, about $64.00. 1968, Pioneer PL-41, purchased at a PX in Viet Nam and shipped home. 1974, Technics SL1200, initial production model - the first arm, simple single switch for 33/center off/45, lift, speed adjustment controls, fair trade pricing back then, $279.98 I think. 1984, I traded in the SL1200, getting in some fashion what I paid for it ten years earlier - they were still very popular with DJ's - this was mainly a direct drive and torque issue - fast startup onver belts. Took home Harman Kardon T-60, about $475.00 list back then. Then soon after, around 1985 I got out of vinyl when CDs hit, and didn't have a turntable again until 2017. I bought a Haman Kardon T-40 and then added a T-60, both from ebay. Though not 60's-70's, I'll add here that both of these turntables follow the same path - simple and relatively 'clean' design and function.
I too have had many turntables over the years. My current tt is a Harmon Kardon ST7 that I refurbished, with an ADC XLM cart and new stylus, into a EAR clone tube phono preamp and I love it - the looks, how it operates, and how it sounds. Oh la la ...!
Great Video. Just getting into vintage gear. I only have newer hifi. I just checked the shelf. I've got a dual 1218 and a thorens 147 jubilee. They are not on your list, but same manufacturers. so much to learn! keep the videos coming, please :)
I started out in around 1973 with AR XB 1a , kept it for years and have it stored now in the original box and foam with the books. Next I went a bit sky high with Linn LP12 Ittok Karma. Then to Sota Star Saphire 2 . Still have that and love it . Two Turntables years ago really did me in though . Nakamichi Dragon and also Thorens Prestige. They are some piece of work there for their day . Just saying how I feel about Turntables.
18:10...Bought a 1019 at the PX in '67. Sold it in '74, and regretted it for 50 years until we got a 1229 in 2024. I'm rotating happy again and Sandra can listen to the 400 or so '78's she has. Bob & Sandra
Still using my 1229 bought new in '73..been worked over since,but still handles my vinyl with kid gloves..I have a couple others in the rotation but there is something about the Dual that makes it worth using over the others...
I love my pioneer pl 707, was lucky to find it for $100 that was pristine in condition. It goes with my pioneer stack, But I currently have it hooked to the fisher 500c.
That´s a nice video! I still have the 1229 I bought new in the 70s, accompanied by a Lenco L78, a Dual 502, and a CEC BD-3200. The nice thing with classic turntables is: when they are well cleaned and properly lubricated, when they have a cartridge that fits to the toneam in its compliance, when the cart is properly aligned, and when you have added a bit of damping and fiddling, then any of those machines sounds really good. So really it is useless to debate which of those is "he best".
I own an AR XB which a building super gave to me. Even has the original box, accessories and paperwork which has a purchase date of December 20, 1975 I also have some Dual turntables.
The Thorens is VERY quiet. As in the background noise from the motor and bearing. I used to spend hours mucking around with it and I've had it so quiet that it couldn't be heard playing blank passages of an album with the volume turned up more than double the setting that I listen to music at what for me is high volume. This is loud enough to be heard out on the street. And at double this volume the turntable was silent. This is absolutely the key to high definition playback. But plonked on a shelf and used as is, this is still a very good table. Mine's simply plonked at the moment and I use it every day. Here in Melbourne, Australia I see Thorens TD160 and 165 come up for sale with Empire MM carts. There must have been a dealer back then who sold these tables with these carts. This is how mine came (second hand 16 years ago)and it's a fantastic combo. I've tried other tables, sometimes for a year or more but when I swap back to the 165/Empire it sounds better. The Empire cart is very clear and tonally a little light on mid-bass. Opposite to the classic Stanton carts. I need this tonal voicing as my speakers are bass heavy transmission line.
Back in "the day", I owned a Linn LP12/ SME/ V15 combo and gave it up for the SL110/ SME/ V15. Today I use Technics SL110/ SME 309 on a nice burrwood board with Kiseki Blue NS and loving it.
I love your unbiased opinions on components.. The only turntable I've owned was the one I bought when I was in high school, which was a technics sl220 belt driven and best audio Technica cartridge I could afford... couldn't afford the direct drive model... But I never had any complaints with the sl220, it did everything it was supposed to do and thought the speed controller was a real plus with the Technics players.. When the belt drive got old and broke, I used a comparable sized rubber band and it worked...lol
I recently acquired a refurbished Gradiente DD 200Q. Brazilian made and just a really beautiful turntable! I also have 1970 British built Ariston RD 11S turntable with an upgraded tonearm and platter. You have to switch the belt over to play 45's ! Paid $10 at a yard sale for that one in the 90's !
Some great turntables here, I also have a Thorens TD 160 mk1, can I also mention some of my other excellent turntables that you didn't feature such as the Kenwood KD990, and the Garrard 401, both of these are brilliant.
Luv, Luv, Luv this post. The turntable is by far my favorite component. I have several but just one in use right now. I switched out my thorens 209, (It's really a novelty from Thorens with that crazy plinth), with vintage Kenwood 3070. It's easily the best table in my small collection. I'm crazy about tonearm on this model. It's super quiet, plays beautifully, sounds fantastic and it's nearly indestructible! I moved and kinda just dumped it in a box willy, nilly with platter on. I lucked out! This machine is gorgeous and working flawlessly. Think it's my forever table. Looks like..... Who knows? (Turntable geeks not mentally stable men.). Thanks for your post.
Just recently re-built my old (50 yr) Thornes TD-125 (Mk II) with the classic SME 3009 S2 arm. I was able to find schematics etc on the Inter-web. Upgraded just about ALL of the electronic components, belt and springs. The heavy platter combined with the old knife edge bearings demands that I re-lube it at least twice a year. One day I'll have the Tonearm refurbished. I owned a Dual 1219 in HS and Pioneer PL55D in college. I sold the 1219 and gave the Pioneer to my cousin. I would love to play with a Technics 1200 someday. Love that VTA "on the fly" feature. Can't do that with the SME 3009.
I had the AR XB in the early '70s, and also got a Garrard Zero 100 for parties. My stuff from back then got destroyed when a water leak poured down on it. That was a bad day.
I have a fully automatic Kenwood KD-5070 in the family since 1977. Had it serviced and it still rocks. As a matter of fact, the service tech refers to it as "The Rock"
Love your video , great . Love you flashed my Denon . 40 years old this year . To me the tone arm drop is everything , preserves your vinyl . Thanks , love Dual & Pioneer look . Cut a square hole in a coffee table for looks ( same tone wood )
I want to ask you a quick probably stupid question....to me I know what i think but I am curious how you feel about it. Do you personally feel there is any advantage to an S curve tone arm over a strait tone arm? Whether it be in tracking or reproduction of sound? Thanks!
my first direct drive was a technics in 76 ,still working , all original ,the SL-1100 i didn´t have it but had the first and second sl-1200 and the sp-10 costumized and the SL-1000mkII
I love your content. Wish you were closer. I would quit my day job and ask you if I could just sweep the floors in the shop. I own a Dual CS 5000 (belt drive, semi-automatic, with quartz drive) not a bad table, and a Dual 701..... (SWEET) table! Fully Auto, direct drive and serviced by Bill "Fix-My-Dual" so happy with Dual. My fist table was a Fisher- then a BIC then a Dual 1257, That broke while I was in college. So I got a BSR. That was like going from a Mercedes Benz to a Ford Fiesta. Such a horrible move. Then I junked that and held out for a Dual 501. Not a great table, but it was functionable and affordable and I kept that for about 10 years till I purchased my 701 in 2005. Still plays like butter. So smooth. And in the between years I picked up the Dual CS 5000, just because.
I acquired a Dual 1219 from one of my clients for free. $200 in service later and the thing is working like the day it was manufactured. Now I don't wake up to my stylus repeatedly plowing into the label on my record anymore!
My vintage Denon direct-drive unit needs some TLC & I wanted a smaller footprint since I was building a little system at work... So I decided to try a Pro-Ject Elemental, just plopped it atop the old Pioneer SX-434 I've had for 25 years & HEYYY: Extraordinarily simple operation, great looks & lovely sound. It's an especially impressive turntable because it doesn't even really have a plinth; there's a skinny slab of particle board holding a motor on one end & a tonearm on the other, with a heavy blob of molded resin in between that keeps everything sturdy. The whole rig hangs from a slat wall in a college bookstore & I'm growing quite fond of it!
My proper “first” turntable was a Connoisseur BD1 made by Sugden cartridge was a Goldring G800 that I bought in 1978. Been looking out for one but they seem to be in the Hen’s teeth department. Nice video…
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I'm still using my Dual 1219, purchased in 1971. Recently took it in for a tune-up and it works like a charm.
I've owned 1009(f?) A TANK. Needed full restoration, contacted well known Dr. Dual, (way more money than I could afford). I only own the drop 45 rpm spindle I bought on Ebay. It's one of those things where with head tossed to side, I heave a sigh.....
Love my $58.00 1219 with a Shure V15-III cartridge. Cleaned the old hard grease out and lubed with quality fishing reel grease and viola it's like new. I've had it now 5 years and it's going strong.
The 1219 was the predecessor to the 1229, made from 1969-1971. It came in two iterations. In the v1 version, the cuing lever does not work in multi-play mode. The 1219 is the same as the 1229, minus the built-in strobe. Many of the parts are interchangeable. The 1229 also came in a 1229Q version... Q for quadraphonic. The only real difference was updated tonearm wires to support the high frequency pilot signal needed to decode quad playback.
Dual Guy here 1218 and 701 Bill services as needed.
You can't beat any of these Duals: 1009, 1019, 1219, 1229 (all idler drive). I also like the 701, a direct drive model. I have a copy of each of the aforementioned units.
I bought a Thorens 160 back in the 70s and lovde it.
When i got back into Vinyl, i was lucky to get a pristine Thorens 165 for a great price.
I love your reviews. No bravado, no boasting, just a regular guy who loves audio and tells everyone about his experiences.
Thank you, Bryan!
Can never go wrong with a Technics in good shape. The amount of headaches you avoid having a swappable headshell, adjustable VTA, and the most reliable speed you could ask for is worth every penny. Only thing that sucks with the older models is the attached RCA.
Still spinning vinyl on my original Dual 1257. Solid as a rock even for being the more budget friendly Dual of the time. 43 years and going strong.
Still using my 1257 as well. Just have to give it a spin in the right direction when I start it. Kinda part of its charm
I grew up with a Dual 1229 and was so sad when it bit the dust in 1985! I also loved that it muted during the automatic cycle and the noises that the unit itself made while it cycled! Peace.
I’ll be selling a Dual 1229 I’m very good,shape if you are interested I’ll let you know when it’s ready. Charlie
My first table was a BSR. 1980 bought a used Duals 1216. I still have it and love it. Since then two 1215S, two 1216, 1218, 1225, 1226, 1229, and two 506 Duals. Love them all
My love in 1985 was the Pioneer PL L-1000 . Loved It
I’ve had a Marantz 6300 since new in 1977, it is like new and with a good cartridge it hasn’t let me down.
Friends are always recommending tables in the thousands, maybe I’ll buy one if the Marantz dies.
Great videos, thanks.
Don't forget about the Dual 1219!!! I have just restored a 1219 my older brother gave me. Solid built.. A nice heavy platter also...
The 1219 is the direct predecessor of the 1229. It is about 97 % identical to the 1229. Especially if you compare the latest 1219 to the very first 1229.
My Dual 701 turntable is great but I have also a Dual 1219, Linn Sondek LP-12 I visited the factory as a dealer in 1983 and all my turntables work great. I have hundreds of LP's in great shape. Working at a stereo store was great.
Dual 701 is my favorite of all😜
Great post! I was a QA tech at the Dual U.S. main distribution location in Mount Vernon, N.Y. back in the late 70's.
One of the main features on their turntables was how accurately you could balance the tone arm.
At audio shows we would mount the turntable upside down on a rack and play a record. The tone arms were so finely balanced that there was minimal wear on your vinyl. Beautifully engineered.
My Dual 1218 still works. I purchased it in 1974. When a wrapped record wouldn't play on other tables, the Dual was there to show that it could be played.
@@michaeladdison5359 that's the incredible Dual Gebrüder Steidinger's tonearm engineering. It has gyroscopic stability.
I was cleaning out the attic and found my Technics SL-Q202 with the Stanton 680 EE cartridge. I haven't seen it in 25 years and thought I may have gotten rid of it during the CD era. Dust cover is intact and I also found a big box of albums. I haven't found much info on this unit so I don't know its value or quality level. After a few days of cleaning and inspection, it sounds pretty darn good with my Marantz 2225 + 1973 Klipsch Heresys paired with a JBL Sub I bought a couple years ago (it's the only piece of my system made in this century...) Love your channel and videos. Rock on!
I have a SL-D202. They look like twin sister turntables. Great quality and does yeoman's work. Not high end, not low end but competent. I bought mine in 1981.
It’s cool to have vintage gear and a repair shop close to home.
Hey Bruce!
Still have the Dual 1229 that I bought in 1972 when I was 18. I love this turntable not only because it’s built extremely well but also has a very high degree of sensitivity. It has the counter weight, of course, for balancing the tone arm, anti-skate, a light strobe function for fine tuning record speed, three settings- 45 and 78 are the two that aren’t normally used and a toggle that allows you to manually very softly drop the tone arm onto the LP.
Very cool that you are local only - cheers to your local customers too - when I get the chance to travel to that part of the country, I will definitely stop in
Very nice video. I still have my Dual 1216 in a Sylvania case from 1974. Still works great.
I really enjoy your content. I’m 60 years old I bought my first turntable when I was about 15 I have to talk real quiet now because it was made by RadioShack but it has lasted all these years and I still use it quite regularly. I have a Newmark for my second turntable it’s got neutral reverse and 78! I need a new cartridge/needle assembly for it. I think I should call you.
Thank you!
Your the only normal record guy on utube
I’ve been running a PL-41 for years now just wanted to see if there was a vintage player I was missing out on.
Once again, thanks for the down to earth video.
I'm using a DUAL 704 Electronic Direct Drive, with a Nagaoka JT322 cart with a Shibata Naked diamond stylus.
In total it cost me less then €500 and I love it! I have a custom made acrylic dust cover on it as well, looks so good.
I did go from vinyl to CD during the 90's, but now I use both as they both have their strong and weak points.
The thing about vinyl is that it takes more time and effort to properly use it (starts with cleaning any new record), which in turn makes you really take time to sit down and listen to the music.
love my modded dual 704 too. with a retipped micro-acoustics 2002e, sweet.
The 704 is a Great Turntable , the reason why i use a 606 is , that i love the Ortophon ULM 155 System
Cool! I have an SL-110 with an SME arm and Shure V15 type III pickup. I bought it in 1970's after I got my B&W DM2A's at their Worthing shop. My dad was friend's with John Bowers and Roy Wilkins and worked for B&W for a short time.
I am still using the family Philips 312 turntable from 1979. Only issue it ever had was a fractured rca connector. Replaced the cables and sounds better than new.
I sold most of the tables you reviewed when I worked for a couple of shops in Harvard square from 72-75. Thorens and Technics were the top picks for people with money. The AR was a best-seller because of price/performance.
Just got a recently serviced Dual 1229! This video and your interview with Bill got me hooked. The look, sound, and build quality are top notch.
I just got a very old but in great condition Rek O Kut T12 with a Shure 232 arm. It has that low idler noise floor but this beast is so dynamic and forceful in its music presentation. I'm amazed.
I bought a Dual 1246 that didn't work for 25 bucks. I downloaded the repair manual and read it and decided to try to repair it and I did. It now works like a charm. I only had to put about 80 bucks of parts into it (a new cartridge/stylus and a belt). They are very complicated underneath and all those levers and parts can scare most but I figured if I can't repair it, I had some spare parts for another one.🎹🎹🎷🎷🪕🎻🎸🥁🥁🎧🎤🔊
You might also wish to try the Rega planar 2 and 3. These are very simple, just a motor, a glass platter and a VERY good tone arm. Made in England and sound great.
My P3 rules.
Gave one to my son.
Rega Planar 3 with the Ortofon Blue! in one room and a Dual 504 in the other
Currently using a Planar 2 from 1978 with cherry wood framing with a Nagaoka MP-110 cart and can confirm! It's not nearly as detailed sounding as my Marantz 6170 but it sounds way more powerful and "musical". And the motor is practically indestructible! I'm never going to stop using my Rega! :D
My Rega planar 2 has worked great for over 40 years. Great product!
I appreciate your connection with turntables and that "connection" to vinyl. Its something I was blessed to grow up with and it sounds better with the right turntable and amp/speakers. I have a Fluance RT83 with upgraded plate and Ortofon Blue cartridge. Staying with heritage and media that has so much historic meaning in history is so much more than many in our electronically advanced society will truly enjoy. Thanks for sharing!
Hang Friday & Saturday playing vinyl ( 70's ) pretty much fighting over the next LP
Bought a Rotel 1100q in 1972. Still using it today.
My Pioneer 518 still works like it did in 1978, hooked up to my old Pioneer receiver 780 still
I have the AR XA, Thorens TD 165, Pioneer PL-41 and the Dual 1229. Looking at the Technics next. Thanks for validating my selections!
I’ve owned many high end and vintage turntables and my FAVORITE one was always the AR XA due to it’s SIMPLICITY and tone arms that would virtually float down towards the vinyl.
Good look. I have thr P 41 and the Dual 1229, both great tables.
Anthony you are correct!...I've been doing this since the 70s....your statement follows basic principles! always buy the best!!! it holds its values....
I had my Dual 510 turntable completely rebuilt about 8 years ago by your guy Jim out there in Des. Moines new Walnut base plays like new again..Shure cart..He does great work..and so do you..I’m one of those guys you talk about who have returned to the HiFi hobby with a vengeance..I live Colorado (Rocky Mountains). There aren’t many HiFi shops around here, thank god for the Internet…but I got a say, You shop looks worthy of a road trip..Currently hunting a classic Marantz receiver…looking forward to you Top Five Marantz video..I have a feeling I know your favorite..keep up the great work.I’ll be watching.
Thanks! Appreciate it!
Thinkin I need to add a Technics SL 1200 to my menagerie…that’s one of those iconic pieces of gear.
Oh and the tech who built my 510 was Bill not Jim ..oh well.
I'm using an old elac miracord 50h ii and I'm extremely happy with it sounds amazing
I have one also and enjoy how well it is made.
@@kevinsmith8328 I have a Realistic Elac Miracord 46. Never thought I'd like a fully automatic idler wheel TT, but it's awesome.
I love the Lenco 75 that I re-built. I grew up with a Dual 1219 that my dad bought.
Still rocking my Pioneer PL 518, Marantz 2225 and My JBL 4310's. Love your channel. Hi from Vancouver Canada
I’m not a real music expert so I don’t have any of the turn tables you mentioned but I chanced upon your channel when you were picking the best receivers for under $300. I found it very interesting and I do have a Sony purchased in 71 or 72 but it’s not the one you mentioned. I ha 20:39 ve a Gerrard turn table with it and they both work great for me. I’m sure they aren’t any where equal to to the ones you have picked but I sure enjoy you show. Keep up the great videos. Thanks
Great video thanks. I have a Dual 504 I bought in 1974. It's all original with dust cover and it works great. Glad you like them.
Duals were my favorite. Before them I had a BSR and a Sanyo. My last was a Pioneer linear, but it only lasted 4-5 years before the motorized arm stopped working.
The AR was my first turntable in 1972 and still my fave. Still working after heavy use for 50 years. I got other turntables but kept coming back to these. I have 2 now.
Too complicated LOL
I have an Elac/Miracord purchased in 1973. Perfect and still running.
I loved it. Brought back memories. Loved my AR XA. I used to get Garrards at a discount, but they were junk..
Picked up a Hitachi PS-48 a year ago for a fair price on looks for my spare listening room. Love this TT so much I actually got rid of my Rega.... Love the sound and appearance of vintage....just recently upgraded to a Grado Opus Cartridge and could not be happier 👍
Currently my favorite turntable to use is my Realistic Elac Miracord 46. It's fully automatic (I tend to like semi-automatic in other TTs) and it's an idler wheel (I was previously a direct drive guy). I bought it at Goodwill for $5 and pulled it out of a bin piece by piece. I had to get a skate and spindle for it. Someone must have cleaned and regreased it because it ran perfectly when I got it, except one of the metal pieces underneath was bent and the start up wasn't working right. I bent the piece back into shape to match the piece next to it and it ran perfectly after that. It's fun to use. The tone arm is short and lifts at an awkward looking angle, but lands perfectly every time. Push the button and walk away. It's a great machine.
Automatics are the only turntables I have ever owned, the start, play, shutoff is the only way to go. Got my first Dual 1218 in 1970 now at 71 years old I don’t want to fuss with a non automatic turntable.
Damn!! A new perspective...bonding with a turntable.
Lol, pretty soon people will be taking their turntables in to go grocery shopping. You watch.
I have a very nice Technics SL-D2 that I got for free. also my pioneer single play bought in hong kong 1966. I also am a broadcast engineer so got to keep the old gates, etc tables going. a tip. clean the rubber parts with alcohol.
I'm going to make Des Moines a destination on my next trip west. I can't wait to check out your inventory.!
I had a Dual 506 in 1980 and loved it. Long gone. I bought one on EBay a few years back though.
i'm sure you've covered some great deck's I have a 1968 goldring lenco GL75 made in switzerland, I built it over a 30 year period and couldn't find most parts untill ebay came online, it runs 16-33-45 and 78, it runs like a swiss watch and I love the fact that it took 30 years to finally finish it, i'm not an audiophile I just like good music and it meets my need's, I hope everyone else is out there that loves the deck they have, DuaL also marketed the same deck under their own name which I think show's how good it still is, really enjoyed the video
I still have my Empire 598 Mk2 first high end I bought in 1972! And except a couple belts over the years still runs great! ($400.00 back then)
Excellent - Thank you! Your list has some of mine on it too. The AR, Dual 1229 and Empire. Add add two others have mentioned. Garrard 301 and 401 and one you'll hate for its service complexity but when restored, a great unit; Yamaha PX-2 linear. The Technics SP-15 and 25 are great as well but they are starting to have capacitor and solder joint issues, eek!
Thanks for the tip on Dual repairs. I have a 701 that's in really nice shape but could use a good refresh.
Bill is the man!
Loved my Dual 701!
Great video... I have I think 9 turntables hooked up to something around here... I love the too! I was happy to see a Dual on your list... my first GOOD turntable in the early 1970s... dependable... and played well ... ex wife got it lol! I purchased one several years ago in great shape ... a 1225. And yep I stack... especially old Christmas records!!!! Lol! Again, Great show!
Great video. I live very close to Skylabs and have been there a few times over the past few years. Always a welcome greeting, happy to chat and answer questions, and the "bench" is in plain sight. They do it all! My 2 turntables are a Technics SL1200 MK2 and a 1972 AR XA which I rehabbed myself. One is a fancy vintage deal, the other probably the world's simplest turntable. Love em both for different reasons.
Thank you, JackT!
New to channel. So far alot of good stuff. I've had a few TT s over the years I've been looking to get an AR to finish out a complete vintage AR system . My favorite Tt tho is my Phillips GA 312 . It's just enough of everything and sounds great with all my vintage equipment . I'll keep watching .
The feeling and relationship I have when playing a record with my Dual turntable is akin to I'm dressing up and on my way to a live concert...
Realistic Lab-400. Much mystery behind who produced it but it's a rock soild performer. Just installed an Ortifon Blue cartridge and it's a great TT. ❤
still have my dual 701 needs a rca plug. my second turntable was a oracle delphi wish i still had it
I had an old Dual 1218. I put an ad on kijiji, "Free to a good home". 15 minutes later a 17-year-old kid was on the way. I still feel good about that.
Good Grief! I found this list pretty amazing. My path too has followed simplicity, design, and manual operation. But, with all the turntables available during these years, I have only had a relative few, but what a list, as least as evidenced by what is covered here. 1964, my first real turntable, ARxa, about $64.00. 1968, Pioneer PL-41, purchased at a PX in Viet Nam and shipped home. 1974, Technics SL1200, initial production model - the first arm, simple single switch for 33/center off/45, lift, speed adjustment controls, fair trade pricing back then, $279.98 I think. 1984, I traded in the SL1200, getting in some fashion what I paid for it ten years earlier - they were still very popular with DJ's - this was mainly a direct drive and torque issue - fast startup onver belts. Took home Harman Kardon T-60, about $475.00 list back then. Then soon after, around 1985 I got out of vinyl when CDs hit, and didn't have a turntable again until 2017. I bought a Haman Kardon T-40 and then added a T-60, both from ebay. Though not 60's-70's, I'll add here that both of these turntables follow the same path - simple and relatively 'clean' design and function.
I too have had many turntables over the years. My current tt is a Harmon Kardon ST7 that I refurbished, with an ADC XLM cart and new stylus, into a EAR clone tube phono preamp and I love it - the looks, how it operates, and how it sounds. Oh la la ...!
I very much enjoyed this video. Well done.
Great Video. Just getting into vintage gear. I only have newer hifi. I just checked the shelf. I've got a dual 1218 and a thorens 147 jubilee. They are not on your list, but same manufacturers. so much to learn! keep the videos coming, please :)
Just found your channel.
Thanks for the video's man. I love them.
Thank you, Jeff!
I started out in around 1973 with AR XB 1a , kept it for years and have it stored now in the original box and foam with the books.
Next I went a bit sky high with Linn LP12 Ittok Karma. Then to Sota Star Saphire 2 .
Still have that and love it .
Two Turntables years ago really did me in though . Nakamichi Dragon and also Thorens Prestige. They are some piece of work there for their day . Just saying how I feel about Turntables.
Thanks for the post. Good job.
I still have my Technics SL D2 direct drive turntable from 1978 and it still works
18:10...Bought a 1019 at the PX in '67. Sold it in '74, and regretted it for 50 years until we got a 1229 in 2024.
I'm rotating happy again and Sandra can listen to the 400 or so '78's she has.
Bob & Sandra
Still using my 1229 bought new in '73..been worked over since,but still handles my vinyl with kid gloves..I have a couple others in the rotation but there is something about the Dual that makes it worth using over the others...
Running a Goldring G99 with a 12"SME arm .old pinchwheel drive 78rpm45 33&16 speeds Shure N75 takes 78 &33 stylii . pretty cool vintage tech.
I love my pioneer pl 707, was lucky to find it for $100 that was pristine in condition. It goes with my pioneer stack,
But I currently have it hooked to the fisher 500c.
That´s a nice video! I still have the 1229 I bought new in the 70s, accompanied by a Lenco L78, a Dual 502, and a CEC BD-3200. The nice thing with classic turntables is: when they are well cleaned and properly lubricated, when they have a cartridge that fits to the toneam in its compliance, when the cart is properly aligned, and when you have added a bit of damping and fiddling, then any of those machines sounds really good. So really it is useless to debate which of those is "he best".
Still have my manual Technics SL-20 that I bought in 1977 when I was 17. Simple and dependable.
I own an AR XB which a building super gave to me. Even has the original box, accessories and paperwork which has a purchase date of December 20, 1975
I also have some Dual turntables.
The Thorens is VERY quiet. As in the background noise from the motor and bearing. I used to spend hours mucking around with it and I've had it so quiet that it couldn't be heard playing blank passages of an album with the volume turned up more than double the setting that I listen to music at what for me is high volume. This is loud enough to be heard out on the street.
And at double this volume the turntable was silent.
This is absolutely the key to high definition playback.
But plonked on a shelf and used as is, this is still a very good table. Mine's simply plonked at the moment and I use it every day.
Here in Melbourne, Australia I see Thorens TD160 and 165 come up for sale with Empire MM carts. There must have been a dealer back then who sold these tables with these carts.
This is how mine came (second hand 16 years ago)and it's a fantastic combo.
I've tried other tables, sometimes for a year or more but when I swap back to the 165/Empire it sounds better.
The Empire cart is very clear and tonally a little light on mid-bass. Opposite to the classic Stanton carts.
I need this tonal voicing as my speakers are bass heavy transmission line.
Back in "the day", I owned a Linn LP12/ SME/ V15 combo and gave it up for the SL110/ SME/ V15. Today I use Technics SL110/ SME 309 on a nice burrwood board with Kiseki Blue NS and loving it.
I love your unbiased opinions on components..
The only turntable I've owned was the one I bought when I was in high school, which was a technics sl220 belt driven and best audio Technica cartridge I could afford... couldn't afford the direct drive model... But I never had any complaints with the sl220, it did everything it was supposed to do and thought the speed controller was a real plus with the Technics players..
When the belt drive got old and broke, I used a comparable sized rubber band and it worked...lol
I fixed an 8track player with a rubber band when I was younger. Gotta do what ya gotta do!
UK here. I bought a Thorens TD 124 new in 1972. Still going strong now after 50 yers. Used with a SME 3009/2.
Hi from Wales. I have had a number of turntables since the early seventies. Had a Rega p3 for years now I have a Rega 6 which I love.
Great tables!
getting flashbacks to my teen days when i first caught the audiophile bug lol thanks brother
I recently acquired a refurbished Gradiente DD 200Q. Brazilian made and just a really beautiful turntable! I also have 1970 British built Ariston RD 11S turntable with an upgraded tonearm and platter. You have to switch the belt over to play 45's ! Paid $10 at a yard sale for that one in the 90's !
Some great turntables here, I also have a Thorens TD 160 mk1, can I also mention some of my other excellent turntables that you didn't feature such as the Kenwood KD990, and the Garrard 401, both of these are brilliant.
Owned a few in my life,Sony ,Micro Seiki,B&O and an Ariston RD 40 which was my fave.
Luv, Luv, Luv this post. The turntable is by far my favorite component.
I have several but just one in use right now. I switched out my thorens 209, (It's really a novelty from Thorens with that crazy plinth), with vintage Kenwood 3070. It's easily the best table in my small collection. I'm crazy about tonearm on this model. It's super quiet, plays beautifully, sounds fantastic and it's nearly indestructible! I moved and kinda just dumped it in a box willy, nilly with platter on. I lucked out! This machine is gorgeous and working flawlessly. Think it's my forever table. Looks like..... Who knows? (Turntable geeks not mentally stable men.).
Thanks for your post.
Lol, thanks for making me laugh!
I still have my Thorens TD125 with a Stax tonearm from 46 years ago. Still awesome.
Just recently re-built my old (50 yr) Thornes TD-125 (Mk II) with the classic SME 3009 S2 arm. I was able to find schematics etc on the Inter-web. Upgraded just about ALL of the electronic components, belt and springs. The heavy platter combined with the old knife edge bearings demands that I re-lube it at least twice a year. One day I'll have the Tonearm refurbished. I owned a Dual 1219 in HS and Pioneer PL55D in college. I sold the 1219 and gave the Pioneer to my cousin. I would love to play with a Technics 1200 someday. Love that VTA "on the fly" feature. Can't do that with the SME 3009.
I have a Dual 1228. 1973, I believe. It’s… amazing! Got it refurbished by a guy out here in CA. Great value at $190.
I had the AR XB in the early '70s, and also got a Garrard Zero 100 for parties. My stuff from back then got destroyed when a water leak poured down on it. That was a bad day.
I have a fully automatic Kenwood KD-5070 in the family since 1977. Had it serviced and it still rocks. As a matter of fact, the service tech refers to it as "The Rock"
Yup! Nice heavy tables!
As far as the anti-skate goes on the AR, you can actually use the tone arm wires running down the shaft of the tonearm for a little bit of anti-skate.
Love your video , great . Love you flashed my Denon . 40 years old this year . To me the tone arm drop is everything , preserves your vinyl . Thanks , love Dual & Pioneer look . Cut a square hole in a coffee table for looks ( same tone wood )
I want to ask you a quick probably stupid question....to me I know what i think but I am curious how you feel about it. Do you personally feel there is any advantage to an S curve tone arm over a strait tone arm? Whether it be in tracking or reproduction of sound? Thanks!
Both are good depending on the manufacturer, IMO
Great video. Ive been rocking my 1200 since the early 90s. It sounds great. DD all the way.
my first direct drive was a technics in 76 ,still working , all original ,the SL-1100 i didn´t have it but had the first and second sl-1200 and the sp-10 costumized and the SL-1000mkII
A sleeper 1982 Hitachi HT-67 owner (Direct Drive, uni-torque with quartz lock, auto, damped arm, electronic no touch photo-sensor return), purchased pre-owned 2013, no issues.
I love your content. Wish you were closer. I would quit my day job and ask you if I could just sweep the floors in the shop. I own a Dual CS 5000 (belt drive, semi-automatic, with quartz drive) not a bad table, and a Dual 701..... (SWEET) table! Fully Auto, direct drive and serviced by Bill "Fix-My-Dual" so happy with Dual. My fist table was a Fisher- then a BIC then a Dual 1257, That broke while I was in college. So I got a BSR. That was like going from a Mercedes Benz to a Ford Fiesta. Such a horrible move. Then I junked that and held out for a Dual 501. Not a great table, but it was functionable and affordable and I kept that for about 10 years till I purchased my 701 in 2005. Still plays like butter. So smooth. And in the between years I picked up the Dual CS 5000, just because.
I acquired a Dual 1219 from one of my clients for free. $200 in service later and the thing is working like the day it was manufactured. Now I don't wake up to my stylus repeatedly plowing into the label on my record anymore!
My vintage Denon direct-drive unit needs some TLC & I wanted a smaller footprint since I was building a little system at work...
So I decided to try a Pro-Ject Elemental, just plopped it atop the old Pioneer SX-434 I've had for 25 years & HEYYY: Extraordinarily simple operation, great looks & lovely sound. It's an especially impressive turntable because it doesn't even really have a plinth; there's a skinny slab of particle board holding a motor on one end & a tonearm on the other, with a heavy blob of molded resin in between that keeps everything sturdy. The whole rig hangs from a slat wall in a college bookstore & I'm growing quite fond of it!
My proper “first” turntable was a Connoisseur BD1 made by Sugden cartridge was a Goldring G800 that I bought in 1978. Been looking out for one but they seem to be in the Hen’s teeth department. Nice video…