[PMAT]

Any input would be helpful. A local is selling one for $100 and I want to jump in the vinyl game.

[ChairSpud]

The 506-1 is a well made manual beltdrive built by Dual back when they were still very popular. I don't think I paid more than $100 for mine when new but that was a closeout at Pacific Stereo in Concord. My 506-1 served me well for many years and it still runs fine but has been retired to the basement.

A couple things to look out for. Make sure the pitch control works and the belt turns the platter. Also make sure the cartridge mount comes with the turntable, they can be hard to find.

If you buy it, don't use a Grado cartridge, it will hum. older Shures sound good on it, and many prefer the Ortofon OM cartridges on it.

Dave

[PMAT]

Thank you for the info, I don't know how to check the pitch control. Maybe I can google it. Is this a good starter table or should I just jump in higher?

[TheChairGuy]

Thank you for the info, I don't know how to check the pitch control. Maybe I can google it. Is this a good starter table or should I just jump in higher?

PMAT (the 'gina genius )

The plinth is cheap on the old DUAL's, the belt drive units like yours doesn't have active speed regulation and the arms were passable, nothing more.

We want you to jump into vinyl and stay...I, too, would recommend another unit.  If you do buy it, know only that there are considerably higher resolution decks out there for the similar money (used) in the marketplace.

You could probably buy an old (similar vintage to the DUAL) BIC 960 or 980 for $40 and derive the same experience if you need to dip your toes in first.  The deck I'm listening to every day cost me $100 on ebay...and it's very, very good on balance.

John

[PMAT]

Thanks, John. I guess I'll wait based on your advice, which sounds logical. I'm keeping my eyes peeled.  Sooner or later I will plunge.
Paul