Feature-packed Automatic 'Table with Bluetooth Control and Streaming
Dual's CS 529 turntable couldn't be more convenient and easier to enjoy. If you've been waiting for the most-trouble free way to get high quality vinyl playback, the CS 529 was designed with you in mind. It boasts the ease of use of a fully automatic turntable without sacrificing audiophile performance. It also features high-end engineering, such as using precision pivot ball-bearings in a twin gimbal tonearm.
Operating the CS 529 is as straightforward as possible, just like old school 'phonographs' but with today's hi-tech turntable technology. The tonearm automatically lifts, moves to the start of the LP, and drops down gently into the groove to begin playback – all with the push of a button. Simply place the vinyl record on the platter, push START, and enjoy your music. That's all there is to operation.
"Responded Instantly to Every Button Press on the App"
Auditioning the CS 529 at an audio trade show, What Hi-Fi? magazine's Kashfia Kabir raves, "During our demo, the turntable responded instantly to every button press on the app – it was pretty impressive and pleasing to use. It works the other way too: selecting a function on the deck itself lit up the same buttons on the app at the same time. We weren't able to pair any Bluetooth headphones in a busy trade show environment, but we did see the fully automatic operation and repeat functions in action, which worked smoothly during the demo."
"It brings a level of convenience unheard of in the turntable market, and I'm wondering why it's taken so long to get this degree of controllability into a record player," reports Lee Dunkley, tomsguide.com, March 18, 2024. "The dual app responded immediately during the demo, giving vinyl fans full control of whatever's on the platter from the comfort of an armchair. Simply tap one of the large buttons on the app's display, sit back and enjoy the awesome sound of the record."
Bluetooth Control and Streaming
All turntable functions can be controlled from the turntable or remotely operated via the Bluetooth circuitry, which also transmits the music data to your Bluetooth hi-fi components. The Dual app for operation and Bluetooth streaming can be installed on any smart device, like a phone, tablet, or computer. The CS 529 is the very first product available anywhere to provide these Bluetooth features. There's an RCA connection for wired playback, too.
Audiophile Features
Despite its "record player" functionality, the CS 529 has been skillfully designed with the needs of audiophiles in mind. The MDF construction uses a subchassis with rubber dampers for resonance control. This very quiet platform provides an excellent sonic performance combined with precision optical speed control.
The CS 529 boasts a s gimball construction with pivot ball bearings. It provides the option to change the phono cartridge in the future should you wish to upgrade. The solid aluminum construction with ball-bearings contributes to the smooth and accurate tracking.
The precise aluminum die-cast platter uses a heavy rubber mat for resonance damping along with a solid hardened steel spindle in a brass bushing.
Easy, Precise Speed Control
A turntable as easy to use as the CS 529 would never insist that you wrestle with belts to change speeds. Operation couldn't be simpler. The precise optical speed control lets you select 33 rpm, 45 rpm, or even 78 rpm with the twist of a knob.
Includes Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge
An Ortofon 2M Red moving magnet phono cartridge is pre-mounted and precision-aligned. The 2M Red is an all-purpose cartridge that delivers open, dynamic sound with a slight touch of warmth. It features a new, improved engine that provides an increased output of 5.5mV, an optimized sound reproduction, and a high level of sonic accuracy.
England's What Hi-fi? magazine honored the Ortofon 2M Red by naming it as one of the ten "Best Cartridges 2020." According to the article, the 2M Red "puts in a great performance for the money. The midrange sounds full and expressive, especially vocals. Bass and treble also score well… It's simple to fit and align, and provides a more than enjoyable listening experience. Proof that quality hi-fi needn't cost the earth."