Platine vinyle automatique Dual CS 429

The Dual CS 429 is the evolution of the well-known Dual CS 415, but it receives numerous improvements. In fact everything has been reworked, on top of offering just about every convenience feature available on a turntable. As well as being automatic, it comes with a built-in phono preamplifier and offers 45, 33 and 78 rpm speed selection.

DUAL CS 429: Plinth

The plinth is made of MDF, which gives it excellent rigidity while providing a strong barrier against resonances. It also houses internal vibration absorbers. It is covered with a good-quality vinyl imitating black grained wood. The base rests on elastomer feet. The turntable comes with a transparent acrylic dust cover.

DUAL CS 429: Motor and Platter

The Dual CS 429 uses belt drive via a DC motor. This is controlled by a precise optical sensor, which regulates speed accurately. The motor sits on rubber mounts that decouple vibration. The platter is die-cast aluminium. It is fitted with a thick rubber mat (2.5 mm) that helps limit resonances. This platter rests on a hardened steel spindle inserted into a brass bushing.

DUAL CS 429: Tonearm, Cartridge and Phono Preamp

The Dual CS 429 turntable has a straight 8.6-inch aluminium tonearm. The headshell (non-standard) is removable if needed. It comes fitted with an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge.

This tonearm is fully adjustable. You can change the cartridge in the future and adjust tracking force and anti-skating accordingly. Note, however, that height (VTA) is not adjustable.

The CS 429's fully automatic function offers maximum ease of use. The tonearm lifts, moves and lowers automatically at the press of a button. You just place the record on the platter and press the start button. These functions can be switched to manual via a switch.

The Dual CS 429 is fitted with a small MM phono preamp, which can also be bypassed via a push-button on the rear of the turntable. It lets you connect the turntable to an auxiliary input on any audio product. The phono cable is not captive and can therefore be swapped for a higher-performance one.

DUAL CS 429: Listening Test

The sound lives up to what you'd expect from German manufacturer Dual. You are immediately immersed in the analogue world. You find the dynamics, presence and openness characteristic of quality vinyl listening. The CS 429 turntable seems to deliver more realistic and dynamic reproduction than previous models, and you also notice more serious build quality.

The Dual CS 429 turntable is a good example of what a modern automatic turntable should be. It is the obvious choice for those who are wary of handling a fully manual turntable. You'll also appreciate the three available rotation speeds, along with the 2M Red cartridge, which lets it do (almost) as well as the manual turntables in this range.

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Dual CS 429 turntable

Is it really automatic?

Yes, fully automatic: the arm lifts, moves and lowers at the press of a button. These functions can be switched to manual via a toggle. It is the obvious choice for anyone wary of handling a fully manual deck.

Does it have a built-in phono preamplifier?

Yes, it has a small switchable MM phono stage, defeated via a button at the rear. This lets you connect it to an auxiliary input on any audio device.

Which cartridge and speeds does it offer?

It is fitted with an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge and offers three speeds: 33, 45 and 78 rpm.

Can you change the cartridge and adjust the arm?

Yes, the arm is fully adjustable for tracking force and antiskating, and the cartridge can be changed. Note, however, that height (VTA) is not adjustable. The non-captive phono cable can be replaced with a higher-performance model.