Need Help with a Dual TT ID, please...

[janikphoto]

Can you ID this Dual, please? We are going to hit up this estate sale tomorrow morning, and I need to be educated as to the quality and value of this specific unit. Having an accurate model number will greatly help me with my research!

 

[OvenMaster]

1257
http://dual-reference.com/tables/1257.htm
Plasticky bottom feeder, but not bad for a starter table. It can be tweaked to be fairly decent.
That one looks like it has the common Dual/Ortofon OEM cart. If you want to put a standard 1/2" mount cart on it, you'll need the rare-as-hen's-teeth mount plate. Good luck with that.
At minimum, you'll need a new stylus, drive belt, homebrew clutch tip replacement. Maybe a cleaning, and certainly a lube job.
If the platter spins backwards when starting, the motor capacitors need to be replaced.
If the toothed plastic belt connecting the Pitch control to the drive pulley breaks, that's $40.
Do not pay more than ±$50 in mint condition... and that one looks a bit dusty.
Disclosure: I've owned mine since 1980.

Tom

 

[janikphoto]

Thanks! That's everything I needed to know.