Dual 1225 Automatic Idler-Drive Turntable – Serviced
$395.00
A fully automatic idler-drive deck built in Germany between 1974 and 1976 — high-torque 4-pole motor, 1.45 kg non-magnetic steel platter, 33⅓ and 45 with ±6% pitch, wow and flutter under ±0.15%. The automatic mechanism has had its hardened grease stripped and replaced with synthetic, the idler wheel cleaned, and the dust cover polished clear. Shure M75 Type D with a new stylus. Cosmetic condition good for its age.
1 in stock
Dual 1225 Automatic Idler-Drive Turntable – Serviced & Restored, New Stylus, Shure Cartridge
Step into the golden age of German engineering with this Dual 1225—a fully automatic idler-drive turntable that delivers the punchy, dynamic sound that only a classic Dual can provide. Produced in the mid-1970s, this “Made in Germany” workhouse features a high-torque 4-pole motor and a precision tonearm that tracks effortlessly. This specific unit has been extensively serviced and restored, resolving the common mechanical issues that plague vintage Duals to ensure it operates as smoothly today as it did 50 years ago.
Comprehensive Service & Restoration:
We have invested significant bench time to bring this Dual back to factory-spec reliability:
Full Mechanism Overhaul: The complex automatic start/stop mechanism has been completely serviced. Old, hardened grease was removed and replaced with modern synthetic lubricants, ensuring the “Steuerpimpel” (clutch glider) and cam gears engage perfectly for smooth tonearm movement.
New Stylus Installed: The classic Shure M75 Type D cartridge—a perfect period-correct match for this arm—has been fitted with a brand new stylus, delivering that warm, full-bodied vintage sound without record wear.
Dust Cover Restoration: The original dust cover has been professionally polished to remove decades of haze and scratches, presenting a clear, attractive view of the deck.
Idler Drive Maintenance: The idler wheel and drive surfaces have been cleaned and treated to ensure strong torque, accurate speed, and minimal rumble.
Classic Idler-Drive Performance:
The 1225 utilizes Dual’s legendary idler-wheel drive system, prized by audiophiles for its propulsive, rhythmic bass (“PRaT”) and immediate speed stability. Unlike belt drives that can feel “soft,” the idler drive connects the high-torque motor directly to the platter for sound that feels alive and energetic.
Features & Specifications:
Fully Automatic Operation: Single-lever start and stop simplicity—the tonearm lifts, cues, plays, and returns automatically.
Drive System: 4-Pole Asynchronous Motor with Idler Wheel Drive
Speeds: 33⅓ and 45 RPM with Pitch Control (±6% adjustment)
Tonearm: Torsionally rigid aluminum tubular arm with precision gimbal bearings and adjustable anti-skate
Platter: 1.45 kg non-magnetic steel
Wow and Flutter: < ±0.15%
Cartridge: Original Shure M75 Type D with New Stylus
Dimensions: 329 x 274 mm (plus plinth dimensions)
Weight: approx. 4.0 kg (plus plinth)
Made in: Germany (1974-1976)
Condition:
This turntable is in good cosmetic condition for its age. The chassis and plinth show honest vintage character but present very well.
Restored Dust Cover: Clear and bright, free of major cracks or deep gouges.
Functionally Perfect: The often-problematic automatic start/stop cycle works flawlessly. Speed is stable and pitch control is responsive.
Summary:
The Dual 1225 is more than just a turntable; it’s a piece of precision clockwork mechanics that plays music. With its freshly serviced mechanism, restored cover, and classic Shure cartridge, this deck offers a tactile and sonic experience that modern plastic turntables simply cannot replicate. It’s ready to provide decades of reliable service to its next caretaker.
Purchase with Confidence
Includes Radique Audio “Bumper to Bumper” Warranty
Perpetual Trade-Back Policy—upgrade or swap with peace of mind
Classic German Idler-Drive engineering—serviced, restored, ready to play; asking $395.
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