Dual 1219 Repair & Restoration

Bring your 1219 back to full potential.

I specialize in repairing Dual idler drive and belt drive turntables like the 1219. Whether you need a routine service such as a steuerpimpel replacement or renewed lubrication, or you need a more extensive restoration, I can help return it to smooth and consistent operation.

Serving the Portland metro area, or further if you don’t mind a drive.

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Why Restore a Dual 1219?

The Dual 1219 is considered one of the finest fully automatic vintage turntables ever built. Along with the 1229 it routinely comes in at the top of “best of” lists. Most problems that develop are due to age, not design. Many issues resolve after the removal of old, hardened grease that has basically turned into glue.

Common Dual 1219 Issues

  • Automatic cycle no longer works
  • Tonearm won’t move during start
  • Turntable won’t start
  • Runs too fast or too slow
  • Speed changes unexpectedly
  • Motor hum, chatter, or vibration
  • Cueing doesn’t lower smoothly
  • Old grease has hardened
  • RCA cables or muting switch issues, loud pop at the start or end of a record cycle
  • Excessive rumble or noise

Most of these issues are repairable without replacing the turntable.

Speed & Pitch control disassembly and rebuild
Dual turntable service checklist
Dual turntable service checklist
Custom built low capacitance RCA interconnects
Custom built low capacitance RCA interconnects
Plinth restoration
Plinth restoration

Restoration Philosopy

These turntables are around 50 years old at this point. The fact that they can be restored to run another 50 years is pretty incredible. Each of these units has a history, even if its full story is lost. I believe these tables are worth preserving and are worthy of a thoughtful and careful process to bring them back to full potential.

Whenever possible, I restore original components as opposed to replacing with aftermarket or 3D printed alternatives. My goal is always to present a turntable that’s reliable, clean, and plays vinyl as it should.

Bench Fee & Estimates

Every repair begins with an inspection.

Diagnostic Fee: $80

The diagnostic fee is applied toward the repair if you decide to proceed.

After inspection, I’ll explain:

  • what I found
  • recommended repairs
  • estimated cost
  • whether the repair is economically worthwhile

If I don’t believe a repair makes sense, I’ll tell you.

Dual 1219 with restored & polished dust cover
Dual 1219 with restored & polished dust cover and restored plinth

Ready to Restore Your Dual 1219?

If your Dual 1219 isn’t performing the way it should, I’d be happy to take a look. I strive for FixMyDual quality without the need to ship.

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