Dual Turntables

[BrettMc]

Hi All,

I have my fathers Dual 1218 functioning. The people that did the work on it installed an ortofon 2m red stylus.

Goals:

1) I am looking for the highest quality audio output I can get from a Dual 1218. Full tonal range, excellent dynamics and punch with the largest possible soundstage—so pretty much I’m looking for everything! I will be playing mostly progressive rock and I am looking to digitize my vinyl collection.
2) I want to be able to swap in a headshell and cartridge and stylus for dedicated 78 playback. I don’t want to mix more modern vinyl with 78’s (I fear that 78’s might punish whatever needles are runnin those groves). If you think one setup will be fine for both, I defer to the groups expertise.

Questions:

1) With what I have here what’s the best setup for ‘audiophile level’ playback?
2) For 78 playback what’s my best bet?
3) What do I have here with all these needles and cartridges?
4) one of the Dual mounts still has the springs that were standard. Should I be using that as my primary mount?
5) One of the mounts the wires have come free but I still have the plastic piece to pin them back down. Is this worth doing?
6) For supreme audio playback, should I consider something beyond what I have?

Thanks all! Your time and expertise are appreciated.

Best,
Brett

 

[J!m]

78s need dedicated cartridges for sure. Generally spherical and high tracking force.

I listen to a lot of prog and the ortofon will be fine. The phono preamp you use will have an impact as well- you need different EQ settings for old 78s v. RIAA EQ for modern records. This is why people often have dedicated set ups for the 78s and another for RIAA records.