Platine vinyle automatique Dual CS 529 BT

The Dual CS 529 BT turntable is the evolution of the famous Dual CS 455. However, it receives numerous improvements. In fact, everything has been redesigned, in addition to offering almost every comfort feature available on a turntable. Indeed, on top of being automatic, it is equipped with a phono preamp, a 45, 33 and 78 rpm speed change and a Bluetooth connection.

DUAL CS 529 BT: Plinth

The plinth is made of solid MDF, which gives it excellent rigidity while offering an excellent barrier against resonances. It also features internal vibration absorbers.

It is covered with good-quality vinyl available in two finishes, imitating black wood grain or walnut. The base rests on elastomer feet. The turntable comes with a transparent acrylic dust cover.

DUAL CS 529 BT: Motor and platter

The Dual CS 529 BT is equipped with a belt drive via a DC motor. This is controlled by a precise optical sensor that finely regulates the speed. The motor rests on rubber supports allowing the decoupling of vibrations.

The platter is precisely die-cast aluminium. It receives a thick rubber platter mat (2.5 mm) that helps limit 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 fitted with a new 8.7-inch straight aluminium tonearm. Its pivot is of the gyroscopic (gimbaled) type. It rests on 4 ball bearings, mounted on a double gimbal. The headshell (non-standard) is removable if needed. It comes standard with an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge.

This tonearm is fully adjustable. It is thus possible to change the cartridge in the future and to modify the tracking force and anti-skating accordingly. Note, however, that the height (VTA) is not adjustable.

The fully automatic function of the CS 529 BT offers maximum ease of use. The tonearm lifts, moves and lowers automatically at the simple press of a button. You just 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 is equipped with a small MM phono preamplifier, which can also be disengaged via a push button at the back of the turntable. It allows the turntable to be connected to an auxiliary input of any audio product. The phono cable is not captive and can therefore be replaced with a higher-performing model.

But its originality comes from its Bluetooth connection. Indeed, all the functions of the turntable can also be controlled remotely via the Bluetooth signal, which also transmits the musical data. The application, which can be installed on any tablet or smartphone, lets you control the entire turntable remotely. This is, I believe, the first product in the world to feature such functionality.

DUAL CS 529 BT: Test and listening

The reproduction lives up to what one can expect from the German manufacturer Dual.

You are immediately immersed in the world of analogue. You find the dynamics, the presence, and the openness characteristic of vinyl listening.

The CS 529 BT seems more precise and more open than the previous models, and you also notice a more serious build.

The Dual CS 529 BT turntable is a fine example of what a modern automatic turntable should be. It is the obvious choice for demanding music lovers who are wary of handling a fully manual turntable. We also appreciate the three rotation speeds available, as well as the Bluetooth connection, which is of decent quality, even if the latter remains a "heresy" for an analogue product.

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Dual CS 529 BT turntable

How does the automatic mode work?

The fully automatic function offers maximum ease of use: you simply place the record on the platter and press the start button, and the tonearm lifts, moves and lowers automatically. These functions can also be switched to manual via a switch. It is the obvious choice for music lovers who are wary of handling a fully manual turntable.

Do I need a separate phono preamplifier?

No. The CS 529 BT includes an MM phono preamplifier, which allows it to be connected to an auxiliary input of any audio product. This preamp is defeatable via a push button at the back, and the phono cable, which is not captive, can be replaced with a higher-performing model if you wish to use the phono input of an amplifier.

Which cartridge is fitted and will I be able to upgrade it?

It comes standard with an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge on a removable headshell. The 8.7-inch straight tonearm is fully adjustable: you will be able to change the cartridge in the future and adjust the tracking force and anti-skating accordingly. Note, however, that the height (VTA) is not adjustable.

What is the Bluetooth connection for?

Its originality comes from Bluetooth: all the functions of the turntable can be controlled remotely via an application installed on a smartphone or tablet, which also transmits the musical data. The turntable also offers three speeds (33, 45 and 78 rpm). The reproduction, dynamic and open, immediately immerses you in the analogue world dear to the manufacturer Dual.