Listening Test: The Dual 1019
The Unassuming Giant
The Artifact
Forged in Germany's Black Forest in the late 1960s, the Dual 1019 is a masterpiece of idler-wheel engineering. The weight of the platter, the satisfying "clunk" of the controls, and the sheer density of its construction tell you this machine was built to last. It is a tank in a tuxedo, a testament to an era of obsessive mechanical integrity.
The Sonic Signature
Its sound can be boiled down to a single word: grip. The idler-wheel drive gives music a powerful, muscular, and immediate presentation. It has a rhythmic drive and a sense of pace that many modern belt-drive tables struggle to replicate. The bass isn't just low; it's physically present and authoritative. This is a front-row-seat kind of sound, full of life and energy.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths: Rhythmic drive (Pace, Rhythm, and Timing are off the charts). Powerful and textured bass. Built like a Panzer tank. Excellent tonearm for the era.
Weaknesses: The complex automatic mechanism requires expert service. If not properly maintained or plinthed, it can be susceptible to rumble. It may not retrieve the very finest, most delicate high-frequency detail compared to a modern high-end table.
Cartridge Considerations
The 1019's tonearm is a medium-mass design that pairs beautifully with a wide range of vintage and modern cartridges. It's a fantastic match for classic Shure cartridges like the M91ED or the V15 Type II, which emphasize its warm, punchy character. For a more modern, detailed sound, the Nagaoka MP-110 is a superb choice, offering more refinement in the top end without sacrificing the table's energetic drive.
The Three-Record Test
Steely Dan - Aja: The 1019's rhythmic authority is a perfect match for the flawless session work on this album. The basslines on "Deacon Blues" are tight, melodic, and incredibly articulate. It gives the pristine production a solid, undeniable foundation that is immensely satisfying.
Daft Punk - Random Access Memories: The 1960s mechanical powerhouse grabs hold of the modern, deep bass on "Giorgio by Moroder" and doesn't let go. The idler-drive's power is a fantastic match for the album's huge dynamic shifts, delivering the synth explosions with a physical force that is visceral and exciting.
Bill Evans Trio - Sunday at the Village Vanguard: The 1019's "front-row" presentation brings you incredibly close to the performance, emphasizing the rhythmic interplay between the musicians. While some tables might better capture the sound of the room, the Dual puts you right next to the piano for an intensely intimate experience.
The Verdict & Recommendation
The Dual 1019 is a giant-killer. It’s for the listener who craves energy, rhythm, and a powerful, live sound. If you listen primarily to rock, jazz, funk, or electronic music, this turntable will make your records sound more alive than you thought possible. It's a vintage piece that requires proper care, but the sonic rewards are immense.
From the Guild Workshop
We are always on the hunt for exceptional examples of the Dual 1019. Any unit we offer has been meticulously serviced by a certified technician to ensure it performs at its absolute best. Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when one arrives at the workshop.
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