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Dual 1209 Idler-Drive Automatic Turntable (1970-1971) in very good to excellent condition. WHY BUY THIS UNIT:* Idler-drive torque — strong, dynamic sound with great rhythm* Fully automatic operation — convenience without sacrificing performance* Multi-speed capability — plays virtually any record format* Solid German engineering — durable and serviceable design* Classic vintage appeal — highly collectible among Dual enthusiasts* Great option for those wanting vintage character + usability If you'd like to see our work, you can follow us on our social media. Thanks for watching.Instagram: @archerhifiFacebook: Archer High FidelityDESCRIPTIONDual 1209 Idler-Drive Turntable — a classic German-engineered turntable from the early 1970s, known for its robust build, fully automatic operation, and dynamic idler-drive performance. As part of Dual’s highly regarded 12xx series, the 1209 delivers strong torque, stable speed, and a lively, engaging sound that many enthusiasts still prefer over belt-drive designs.Equipped with a precision idler-drive system and heavy platter, the Dual 1209 offers excellent speed consistency and quick start-up. Its fully automatic mechanism and multi-play capability make it both practical and versatile, while the solid construction ensures long-term reliability when properly serviced.SPECIFICATIONS Drive: Synchronous hi-torque motor with radial-elastic suspensionPlatter: Non-magnetic dynamically balancedTurntable speeds: 33.33, 45 and 78rpmPitch control variation: One semitone at all speedsSpeed accuracy: <+- 0.009%Rumble: More than 42dB below signal levelTonearm: Torsionally rigid, all metal design with vertical needle bearings, horizontal 2-layer precision ball bearings in hardened and polished racesCartridge holder: Removable, suitable for acceptance of cartridges having 1/2" mounting and a weight of 1-12gLocal pick up / inspection / purchase available at Archer High Fidelity in Falls Church, VA. We are a vintage sales and service specialist covering the Washington DC metro area.All major credit cards accepted, as well as PayPal, check on clearing, and Venmo.Any other questions, please feel free to ask.
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Dual emerged from the Black Forest region of Germany in 1907, when brothers Christian and Joseph Steidinger began manufacturing clockwork and gramophone components in St. Georgen. The company adopted its now-iconic name in 1927 after pioneering dual-mode power supplies that allowed gramophones to operate from either mains electricity or mechanical wind-up mechanisms. This innovation marked the beginning of Dual's transition from component supplier to full-fledged audio manufacturer, establishing a foundation of engineering precision that would define the brand for decades.
Dual built its reputation primarily as a turntable specialist, becoming Europe's largest turntable manufacturer by the post-war era with over 3,000 employees across multiple factories. Beyond vinyl playback, the company expanded into cassette players, CD players, and broader consumer electronics throughout the 1970s and 1980s, demonstrating versatility across analog and digital formats. The company's focus on mechanical excellence and stable drive systems earned it recognition as a dependable, quality-focused manufacturer throughout its European heyday.
Today, Dual occupies a fragmented market position following corporate restructuring in the 1990s and subsequent ownership changes. The original German turntable line continues production in St. Georgen under Alfred Fehrenbacher GmbH, maintaining traditional manufacturing standards and appealing to vintage enthusiasts and collectors. Separately, Namsung Electronics markets Dual-branded consumer electronics in the Americas at accessible price points. The brand's legacy rests primarily on its classic turntables, which remain highly sought after by collectors and audiophiles valuing precision engineering and heritage craftsmanship.
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