The Dual CS 429 sits within Dual's fully automatic CS-series range, positioned above the entry-level CS 329 and sharing its core engineering philosophy of convenience-first vinyl playback. Where the CS 329 operates at 33 and 45 rpm, the CS 429 adds 78 rpm support and introduces a DC motor with optical speed control — making it the recommended choice for listeners who play 78 rpm shellac records or who prioritise tighter speed regulation than a synchronous AC motor provides.
Construction
The plinth is built from MDF and uses a subchassis construction, with rubber dampers isolating the internal components from the plinth walls and a set of elastomer feet beneath that further decouple the whole assembly from the surface it stands on. The intent, as Dual describe it, is to decouple the tonearm and platter from external vibrations — the rubber-mounted motor and the damping in the feet address both airborne and structure-borne interference.
The aluminium die-cast platter weighs 850g including the 2.5mm rubber mat. Its bearing uses a hardened steel spindle running in a brass bushing — a conventional but effective construction at this price point that resists radial play and minimises rumble. The belt itself is precision-cut, which Dual notes directly as a contributor to the low wow and flutter figure.
Tonearm and Drive
The straight, statically balanced tonearm is machined from solid aluminium and runs on ball-bearings in both horizontal and vertical axes. Antiskating is spring-loaded. All tonearm functions — lowering, travel, lift — operate automatically at the press of the start button, but the adjustable counterweight and antiskating dial allow the arm to be set up with any compatible cartridge within the 5–9g mounting weight range. The effective arm length of 221.5mm gives an offset angle of 25.6° and 19mm of overhang.
The DC motor is regulated by an optical speed control sensor that monitors actual platter speed and corrects in real time, rather than relying on the stability of the mains frequency. This allows speed accuracy to be maintained regardless of load, and is the mechanism behind the headline wow and flutter figure of less than ±0.08% (DIN rated).
Connectivity
The CS 429 provides a switchable phono/line output via RCA sockets. The phono position routes the signal through the internal RIAA phono stage, allowing connection to any amplifier's line-level input — including modern amplifiers and AV receivers that lack a dedicated phono stage. The line position bypasses the internal stage for connection to a separate phono stage or an amplifier with its own phono input. There is no digital output.
Supplied Cartridge
The factory-installed Ortofon 2M Red is supplied ready for playback. It operates within the CS 429's 5–9g cartridge weight range and the 0–4g stylus pressure range of the tonearm. The stylus is replaceable, and compatible upgrade styli are available from Ortofon.