Dual
Dual CS 618Q Direct Drive Turntable with 2M Cartridge
Best direct-drive turntable for audiophiles seeking precision and long-term reliability.
Experience exceptional audio quality with the Dual CS 618Q HiFi-Turntable. Renowned for reliability, its rumble-free direct-drive system ensures stable RPM and quiet operation. The advanced twin gimbal precision tonearm is paired with an Ortofon 2M Blue pickup. An auto-stop feature with automatic tonearm lift minimizes needle wear. Featuring a solid MDF plinth and a heavy aluminum die-cast platter with a resonance-damping rubber mat, this turntable is built for superior sound reproduction and durability. Enjoy a premium vinyl listening experience.
$899.37
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
232
/ 631
#232 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
-79%
Below average
Drive Type
Direct Drive
/ Direct Drive
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound without immediate cartridge upgrades
- Listeners demanding pitch-perfect speed stability and consistent playback
- Vinyl collectors valuing long-term durability and precision mechanical design
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers exploring their first high-end turntable
- Casual listeners preferring the convenience of automatic playback features
- Purists sensitive to even minor motor noise during quiet passages
Performance breakdown
Speed Stability
Quartz-stabilized direct drive ensures pitch-perfect playback for every record.
Tonearm Precision
Twin gimbal design tracks grooves with exceptional accuracy and minimal distortion.
Vibration Isolation
Solid MDF plinth effectively dampens external resonance for a cleaner signal.
Cartridge Performance
The Ortofon 2M Blue delivers crisp, detailed highs and balanced mids.
Operational Convenience
Auto-stop and lift features protect your stylus without sacrificing manual control.
Build Quality
Heavy die-cast platter and robust construction offer long-term reliability.
Key Specs
Drive Type
Direct Drive
Plinth Material
Solid MDF
Platter Material
Aluminium Die-cast
Tonearm Design
Twin Gimbal
Cartridge
Ortofon 2M Blue
Operation Mode
Manual
Auto-stop function with automatic tonearm lift
Supported Speeds
33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
Features
- Rumble-free direct-drive for stable, quiet playback
- Precision twin gimbal tonearm with Ortofon 2M Blue
- Auto-stop and auto-lift protects your needle
- Solid MDF plinth with vibration isolation
- Heavy aluminum platter with rubber mat
- Quartz-stabilized drive for high-end performance
- Removable dustcover included
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Dual CS 618Q for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. The included Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge delivers vibrant, detailed audio and an expansive soundstage, truly revitalizing vinyl collections. Users value the direct drive mechanism for its consistent speed stability, ensuring a pristine listening experience. Setup is remarkably user friendly, even for newcomers to high-end audio. Furthermore, the classic walnut finish offers an elegant aesthetic that complements modern homes. Despite its premium positioning, the consensus is that the turntable provides excellent value, justifying the investment through superior fidelity, durable construction, and overall refined performance. It stands out as a reliable, high-performing choice for serious enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a manual turntable. You must place the tonearm on the record yourself, though the auto-stop and auto-lift feature will automatically raise the arm and stop the platter once the record finishes playing.
The direct-drive motor connects directly to the platter, which provides superior speed stability and eliminates the need for a drive belt. This results in a more consistent rotation and a lower noise floor, which is ideal for audiophile-grade listening.
Yes, the turntable comes with the Ortofon 2M Blue moving magnet cartridge already mounted. It is a highly regarded cartridge known for its detailed, dynamic sound reproduction.
The twin gimbal design provides precise tracking and balance for the stylus. By minimizing friction and movement, it ensures the needle stays firmly in the record groove, which reduces distortion and improves overall clarity.
The CS 618Q outputs a phono-level signal, so you will need a phono preamplifier to connect it to a standard line-level input on an amplifier or powered speakers. If your current amplifier has a dedicated 'Phono' input, you can connect it directly.
The heavy die-cast aluminum platter adds mass, which helps maintain consistent speed and dampens unwanted vibrations. Combined with the included rubber mat, it creates a stable, resonance-free surface for your records.
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