Dual 510

[Goove]

Hello All...
Looking for some advice. I just came across a Dual 510 turntable for sale online. Looks like it’s in good shape and has been serviced...new Audio Technica cartridge (AT-91).
One of the hinges is broken so the cover won’t stay up on its own.

They’re asking $120.

Thoughts and advice welcome!
Cheers

 

[55Redneck]

I have one and it was my main table for quite some time. I had to shelve it because it was having two problems that were driving me crazy, 1: It kept dropping the left channel 2: The speed was not that stable, it wasn't really bad, just a slight warble once in a while. These two things are probably an easy fix but I prefer the JVC QL A2 I replaced it with so the Dual now gathers dust. When it was right it sounded quite good, don't know if I'd pop $120 for one but then again I'm a cheap bastard.

 

[Goove]

I have one and it was my main table for quite some time. I had to shelve it because it was having two problems that were driving me crazy, 1: It kept dropping the left channel 2: The speed was not that stable, it wasn't really bad, just a slight warble once in a while. These two things are probably an easy fix but I prefer the JVC QL A2 I replaced it with so the Dual now gathers dust. When it was right it sounded quite good, don't know if I'd pop $120 for one but then again I'm a cheap bastard.

I’m having a look at it tomorrow. Yeah, not sure if I want to shell out $120. The major appeal is that it’s been serviced and has a nice cartridge / stylus.

I just replaced my Pioneer TT with my JVC QL-A51. Sounds fantastic. I’m thinking I should just spend some money on upgrading the cartridge on that unit instead?

 

[Montycat]

I think the Dual is the better table. Maybe not miles better so you have to justify the expense. $120 Canadian? Not too bad.

The hinge isn't too big a deal or hard to replace. However the motor in those can be a problem. If it's the SM-840 it can be prone to running at twice normal speed. It's fixable by changing the motor (or part of it) to the SM-860. Ask about that. If it's got the 860 that's a good thing. If they say "What?" I'd question what service they might have done.

 

[55Redneck]

Just for kicks I plugged in the old 510 a week or so ago and it does exactly what Montycat describes, it runs about double speed that it should. Just an FIY I took off the stock head shell and ADC cart off the JVC and replaced it with a Stanton 881S cart and DAMN is it a good sounding combo to my ears. I haven't found another cart that sounds anywhere near as good on this table including a couple of Shures. If I were you I'd spend my money upgrading your JVC if it functions well.

 

[Fernando]

I have a 510, a 504 and have played with the 506. I like the 510 much better. Many components that are plastic on the other 2 were still metal on the older 510. The platter was a cast unit similar to the one in the 704 and 721. The SM-840 motor was a problem until I replaced it with an SM-860. With the motor mod, I think the 601, 502, and 510 were the best performing of the Dual belt drives. The 601 is a little more complicated because of the full automation and includes some extra pieces that are fragile and hard to replace. The simpler 510 to me makes the best long term investment in Dual Belt drives.

 

[T68]

Running double speed is probably the sm840 motor acting up (only happens on US 60hz current).
The sm860 motor has this sorted and is a drop in replacement (if one can find it).

I have a 601 that runs and plays great. Being on 50 Hz it runs true on speed.
A 510 is of the same heritage and should be a good one.
Op, did you get the Dual?

 

[dave b]

Again absolutely love the look of my 1249 belt drive plus plays smoothly.

 

[jbjsr]

Owned a 510 years ago and they are well built nice sounding belt drive decks. Mine kept great speed.