Are Dual turntables any good?

Bought my top of the line 1219 new in 1971. The idler wheel had a flat spot after about 15 years. Never actually noticed it until my cassette deck showed the bump on its meters. It was an easy fix. I'd guess as long as you get a Dual with the full sized 12" platter you'll be OK. The arms are fixed mounted so not tweakable. The headshell does come with a clear plastic jig to set the optimal stylus placement point. After the 1229 the Duals may be direct drive which may be another animal. Steer clear of the entry level 1215 unless it's $10 or less.

Thanks to both of you for the info.

Which country is Dual from (back then)? My gf's parents had one and they are from Germany. Just curious.

If it's one of these models and I can talk the guy into a better deal then I'll pick it up. Need one for the basement anyways.

Yes, the old turntables were made in Germany.

Another belt-drive Dual to consider is the 1245. I owned one for a long time without any trouble. I used it with a Shure V15 III. I then progressed to the new AR table and then to a Sota Saphire III, which I still use today.

I owned a 505-3, or was it a 503-5? Honestly don't recall but it was a nice belt drive that always peformed well. Try this web site for a lot of good info on vintage Dual tables: http://www.compassnet.com/concept/tableinx.htm