Dual CS 529 BT automatic turntable

Dual CS 529 BT Turntable: An Evolution in Vinyl Playback

The Dual CS 529 BT turntable is an evolution of the renowned Dual CS 455, featuring numerous enhancements. Virtually every aspect has been upgraded, offering almost all the comfort features available on a turntable. It is fully automatic, equipped with a phono preamp, supports 45, 33, and 78 RPM speeds, and offers Bluetooth connectivity.

DUAL CS 529 BT: PLINTH

The plinth is made from solid MDF, providing excellent rigidity and serving as an effective barrier against resonances. It also includes internal vibration absorbers. The plinth is covered with high-quality vinyl in two finishes, imitating either black grain wood or walnut. The base rests on elastomer feet, and the turntable comes with a transparent acrylic dust cover.

DUAL CS 529 BT: MOTOR AND PLATTER

The Dual CS 529 BT features a belt drive system powered by a DC motor, precisely controlled by an optical sensor to regulate speed meticulously. The motor is mounted on rubber supports to decouple vibrations. The platter is precision-cast aluminum, topped with a thick (2.5mm) rubber mat to minimize resonances. This platter rests on a hardened steel spindle inserted into a brass bushing.

DUAL CS 529 BT: TONEARM, CARTRIDGE, AND PHONO PREAMP

The Dual CS 529 BT turntable is equipped with a new 8.7-inch straight aluminum tonearm with a gyroscopic (gimbaled) pivot. It rests on four ball bearings mounted on a double gimbal. The non-standard, removable headshell comes with an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge. This tonearm is fully adjustable, allowing future cartridge upgrades and adjustments to tracking force and anti-skating. However, note that the height (VTA) is not adjustable.

The fully automatic function of the CS 529 BT provides maximum ease of use. The tonearm lifts, moves, and lowers automatically at the press of a button. Simply place the vinyl record on the platter and press the start button. These functions can be switched to manual via a switch.

The Dual CS 529 BT includes a small, switchable MM phono preamp, allowing the turntable to connect to any audio product's auxiliary input. The phono cable is not captive and can be replaced with a higher-performance model.

The standout feature is its Bluetooth connectivity. All turntable functions can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth, which also transmits the musical signal. The accompanying app, installable on any tablet or smartphone, allows complete remote control of the turntable. This is likely the first product worldwide to offer such functionality.

DUAL CS 529 BT: PERFORMANCE

The sound quality is what one would expect from the German manufacturer Dual. The listening experience is immediately immersive, with the dynamics, presence, and openness characteristic of vinyl playback. The CS 529 BT feels more precise and open than previous models, with noticeably sturdier construction.

The Dual CS 529 BT turntable exemplifies what a modern automatic turntable should be. It is the clear choice for discerning audiophiles who are wary of handling a fully manual turntable. The availability of three rotation speeds and the decent-quality Bluetooth connectivity are appreciated, even though Bluetooth might seem an "anomaly" for an analog product.

Highly recommended!