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The Dual 1229 is a legendary 3-speed (33, 45, 78 RPM), fully automatic idler-drive turntable from 1972, often considered a "no-compromise" automatic and a peak performer from Dual's "golden era". Known for its heavy 7lb platter, robust motor, and 8.75-inch tonearm, it offers excellent sound performance and precise tracking.This unit has been cleaned, lubed and polished top to bottom to like new condition. New steuerpimpel... full automatic functions perfectly, stacker spindle included. Strobe works... new bulb installed. Dust cover is clean and crack-free, polished to a beautiful patina. This TT has been part of my daily system for the past year and plays flawlessly. Includes a Shure Super Tracker Plus cartridge and stylus aligned and balanced. A superb example of vintage '70s hi-fi turntable engineering.From VinylEngine: DescriptionWith the 1229, Dual has achieved what many audio experts have called the no-compromise automatic.The most dramatic example of this is the mode selector that shifts the entire tonearm base - down for single play, up for multiple play.Thus the stylus tracks at precisely the correct angle in both modes of play.The 8 3/4 inch tonearm, the longest of any automatic, tracks flawlessly at as low as 0.25 gram.Other 1229 features include 12 inch a dynamically balanced 7lb platter, powerful continuous pole / synchronous motor, built in illuminated strobe with adjustable viewing angle and a calibrated tracking pressure dial.The unit has 3 speeds with one semitone pitch variation on all three speeds and the torsionally rigid, extra-long all-metal tonearm features four-point Gimbal type bearing. SpecificationsDrive: synchronous continuous-pole motor with radial elastic suspensionPlatter: non-magnetic, dynamically balanced, weighing 3,1kgSpeeds: 33.33, 45 and 78rpmPitch control variation: 6%Speed accuracy deviation: +-0.06%Signal to noise ratio: -63dB weightedTonearm: extra-long, torsionally rigid metal arm, in 4-point gimbal suspension, with skeletal head designCartridge holder: removable, accepts all 1/2" cartridges from 1 to 12 gDimensions: 376 x 308 mm (14.8 x 12 in)Weight: 7.2 kg (15.8 lbs.)
Is this really worth US$850 without more details? For a Dual 1229, that’s ambitious: recent used examples cluster much lower, with decent working units often around US$175–US$200, freshly reconditioned ones roughly US$300–US$350, and even restored or serviced examples usually not stretching to this asking price unless they’re exceptional and very complete.
That said, the 1229 is a classic idler-drive automatic with real charm: solid build, good speed stability, and a very satisfying mechanical auto system when properly sorted. If this one has documented service, a healthy arm, intact platter mechanism, and a good cartridge/stylus plus dust cover, it could still be a nice ownership piece. At this price, though, I’d want proof of restoration and a clear parts list before I’d call it a buy.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
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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