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Dual 1229 vs. Pioneer PL-518???

scorv

scorv

Active Member
OK I have a little dilema :mad::confused:!! I am currently refurbishing a Pioneer PL-518 with a new veneer and was wondering what the quality of this deck is vs. the Dual 1229 [one I have has the CK20 European cabinet with pull down front storage]???

I am figuring it maybe in the tone arm since they are both very solid plinths and seem close in build quality???
I know the Pioneer PL-560 would be a closer match since it is a [Quartz lock] Fully automatic deck and the PL-518 is only auto return..

Just wondering which one to keep?? I had the Dual recently refreshed but its mechanical nature makes me a bit nervous about long term wear and tear. The connections on the Dual on the arm--to headshell could use micro-polishing but dont know anyone who can do it?? The Pioneers are workhorses.


BTW:
My Belt Drive fully manual deck is a Thorens TD-165 with Nagaoka MP-200 cart & AT740ML cart. But I like an auto return deck in the arsenal when I am busy or have company over so I dont have to hawk over the deck and manually lift arm before it smashes into the label---NOT GOOD!!!


Thanks

Steve,
 
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Two entirely different kinds of beasts. The mechanical nature is the reason many, including me, love the Dual... very elegant. The Pioneer is quite good. I'd keep the Dual knowing them inside and out should the need arise.
 
I have both. Both excellent decks. I would not part with either. You would probably have to spend a lot to find a better sounding more modern turntable

Bought my 518 in minty condition in the original box. All 4 original feet...hardly a scratch on the dustcover. Running a nice MA cart atm. The 518 is a heavy beast.

Just grabbed a 1229 recently. I like the sound of the idlers. Something super solid about the sound. It came with a Shure M95E cart. I put a M97E stylus in it. Tight fit, but sounds great.
 
I'd keep both. Then you will have good examples of all 3 drive types: belt, idler and direct drive. :)
 
Another for keeping both. The Dual is a very stout turntable. Really, I have both a 1229 and 1229 Q. besides the direct drive Technics SL-1700 and SL-1710 and the Dual is my main system player.

By keeping both, if you are concerned with the mechanical nature of the Dual, you will have a back up.
 
If you really have to let one go, keep the Dual. If you regret I think you'll have an easier time finding another Pio than another 1229 in good nick.
 
Micropolishing the headshell contacts is something you can do. Just remove the cartridge sled, you'll see the 4 pins on the back of it. Those pins touch a small board in the arm. Take a pencil eraser and lightly erase the black tarnish from the leads on that little board in the end of the arm.
 
Phase700b said:
Another for keeping both. The Dual is a very stout turntable. Really, I have both a 1229 and 1229 Q. besides the direct drive Technics SL-1700 and SL-1710 and the Dual is my main system player.

By keeping both, if you are concerned with the mechanical nature of the Dual, you will have a back up.
Click to expand...

Love those Technics decks. I had a 1610. Loved the graphite color.

I have a 1900 now. Not as nice, but a bit of a sleeper in that series. Once I fixed the auto functions it's been trouble free.
 
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