Getting back into Vinyl

[cyto]

I just bought a Dual 1254 turntable for my 2 channel system. I haven't used a turntable since 1985 and don't have any vinyl (yet).

Any advise?

Thanks

[frenchmon]

Do you have a cart yet? Make sure it level....and isolated as much as possible

Here's three places to get records if you need it.

Dusty Groove America - Home Page - Jazz, Soul, Funk, Hip Hop, Brazil, Latin, and more on LP and CD (http://www.dustygroove.com/)

Vinyl Records, SACDs, DVD Audio, Audiophile Equipment | Acoustic Sounds (http://store.acousticsounds.com/)

Elusive Disc - Hardware, Accessories, SACDs, Vinyl LPs, DVD-As and MORE! Call us (800)-782-3472 (http://www.elusivedisc.com/)

[JohnMichael]

I just googled your the Dual and it said it was belt driven. If the belt had not been replaced in several years you should buy a new belt. Also curious as to what cartridge you are using. The Dual table's tonearm are low mass and work best with a high compliance cartridge. You might want to try an Ortofon 2M or one of the Grado cartridges.

The table was also said to be an automatic ttable so if you are handy I would look under the top deck and see if the automatic mechanism still has some grease and operates smoothly. Another idea is to check the main bearing for the platter. It may need sone fresh oil but not the grease for the automatic mechanism.

Turntable Basics. Turntable Belts, Parts and Accessories. (http://www.turntablebasics.com/) should have a belt if needed. Music Direct is a good source for vinyl along with bearing oil.

Have fun.

[cyto]

Got the turntable set up, tone arm balanced etc. Get a lot of popping/hiss playing a clean record, it has the original stylus and cartridge.

Should I replace the stylus or the entire cartridge?

[JohnMichael]

Got the turntable set up, tone arm balanced etc. Get a lot of popping/hiss playing a clean record, it has the original stylus and cartridge.

Should I replace the stylus or the entire cartridge?

What cartridge are you using?

[cyto]

What cartridge are you using?
The original TKS 45E

[JohnMichael]

That is an Ortofon cartridge. I am curious about how it is mounted. The picture is only so clear. The good news is the Ortofon system for that style of cartridge is when you replace the stylus a new ring magnet comes with it. You will not need to worry about an old magnet weakening. I am not 100% sure but I think an OM10 stylus would work.

[JohnMichael]

I checked my old analog collection and I have a lightly used OM10stylus that I could send no charge. I will never use it again and this will give you an idea if I am right. If interested just PM me with where to mail and I will put in a padded envelope and on it's way.

[cyto]

I checked my old analog collection and I have a lightly used OM10stylus that I could send no charge. I will never use it again and this will give you an idea if I am right. If interested just PM me with where to mail and I will put in a padded envelope and on it's way.
PM sent,

Thanks