Dual CS 418

The Dual CS 418 marks the triumphant return of an iconic brand that shaped the hi-fi world throughout the 1980s and 1990s. After dominating the entry-level turntable market with its legendary CS 505 model, Dual is reborn with this new generation that combines traditional expertise with contemporary innovations. This manual, belt-driven turntable stands as a credible alternative to established references, boasting meticulous design and a comprehensive set of features, including the renowned Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.

Construction and Anti-Vibration Engineering

The CS 418’s construction philosophy is based on a methodical approach to vibration isolation. The solid MDF chassis, finished in black vinyl, incorporates 62mm diameter elastomer dampers in its feet, effectively decoupling the turntable from its support. This sturdy base supports a 305mm die-cast aluminum platter, paired with a specially designed 2.5mm thick rubber mat to control unwanted resonances.

The major innovation lies in the unconventional repositioning of the DC motor, a technical solution that drastically reduces the transmission of vibrations to the platter. This servo-controlled motor, mounted on rubber suspensions, ensures perfectly stable rotation with wow and flutter below 0.1% according to the DIN WTD standard.

The straight 221.5mm tonearm, fully machined from aluminum, rests on precision ball bearings that guarantee smooth and accurate movement. Its damped lift system and adjustable tracking force and anti-skating allow for fine-tuning according to the cartridge used, although the vertical tracking angle (VTA) is not adjustable.

Audiophile-Grade Equipment and Accessories

The CS 418 stands out for its “complete package” approach, which is especially appreciated by newcomers. The Ortofon 2M Red cartridge comes pre-mounted and factory-set. This moving magnet (MM) cartridge is renowned for its tonal balance and ability to extract detail without harshness, providing a solid sonic foundation that doesn’t require immediate upgrading.

The integrated MM phono preamp, switchable via a rear toggle, is a major asset for versatility. This feature allows the turntable to be connected directly to any amplifier or active system, even those without a dedicated phono input. Audiophiles who already have an external preamp can disable this function to preserve their customized signal chain.

The presence of three speeds (33, 45, and 78 rpm) with electronic switching—no need to handle the belt—greatly expands listening possibilities, especially for collectors of vintage records or 45 rpm singles.

Installation Versatility and Ease of Use

The CS 418’s design prioritizes easy setup and universal connectivity. The built-in analog-to-digital converter enables a direct line output, eliminating the need for an external phono preamp. This feature, particularly valued in modern setups, maintains respectable conversion quality with minimal impact on signal dynamics.

The detachable interconnect cable can be replaced with a higher-quality model to suit user preferences. This modularity, rare at this price point, reflects the attention given to system upgrade possibilities.

Electronic speed switching is performed without mechanical intervention, preserving settings and avoiding the risk of destabilizing the platter. The removable dust cover effectively protects the mechanisms while allowing easy access for maintenance.

Upgradability and Customization Options

Although positioned as an entry-level model, the CS 418 offers interesting upgrade possibilities. The removable headshell accepts a wide range of cartridges, allowing users to tailor the sound signature to their personal preferences. The cartridge weight range of 4 to 13 grams (including the headshell) allows for the installation of moving coil models with the addition of a dedicated MC preamp.

Adjustable tracking force and anti-skating enable fine optimization according to the chosen cartridge. Only the vertical tracking angle (VTA) remains non-adjustable, a limitation that may restrict the use of certain highly specific cartridges.

The quality of the tonearm bearings and the robustness of the construction allow for these upgrades without compromising the turntable’s core performance, making it a solid foundation for gradual system enhancement.

Technical Specifications

Drive System

• Silent direct current motor
• Polished belt drive for synchronized speed
• Rubber motor suspension to dampen vibrations
• Speeds: 33 / 45 / 78 rpm
• Wow and flutter: < ±0.1% (DIN WTD)

Tonearm

• Straight shape balanced by counterweight
• Damped tonearm lift
• Adjustable tracking force and anti-skating
• Ball bearing
• Length: 221.5 mm
• Offset angle: 25.6°
• Overhang: 19 mm
• Tracking force: static via counterweight
• Cartridge weight: 0 to 4 g
• Headshell weight: 5 g to 9 g
• Supplied cartridge: Ortofon 2M Red
• Automatic start/stop: no

Platter

• Die-cast aluminum
• 2.5 mm rubber mat to dampen resonance
• Bearing: hardened steel shaft in brass bushing
• Diameter: 305 mm
• Weight with mat: 850 g

Chassis and Connectivity

• MDF wood construction with black plastic veneer
• Ø 62 mm feet with elastomer isolators
• Removable dust cover
• Connection: RCA plug
• Phono input: yes
• Line input: yes
• Digital output: no

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions with lid closed: 435 x 367 x 145 mm
• Dimensions with lid open: depth 415 mm / height 400 mm
• Weight: 5.8 kg
• Color: black