The Dual 502 is a semi-automatic, belt-driven turntable produced by the German manufacturer Dual from 1975 to 1978 (with initial production variants starting around 1974–1975).
Origins and Positioning
Budget-Conscious Design: The 502 was introduced as a stripped-down, cost-effective version of the higher-end Dual 510.
Role in the Lineup: It offered classic Dual analog performance on a budget, featuring a manual start with a mechanical auto-stop mechanism that lifted the tonearm and shut off the motor at the end of a record.
Key Technical Specifications & Features
Drive System: Flat belt-drive powered by an 8-pole AC synchronous motor (famously utilizing the SM840 motor).
Speeds: Supports 33 1/3 and 45 RPM, with a pitch control adjustment of ± 6% (accessed under the platter on the original 502 design rather than via an external knob).
Platter: 300mm non-magnetic die-cast aluminum platter weighing 1.3 kg.
Tonearm: Torsion-resistant tubular aluminum tonearm mounted in a 4-point gimbal bearing, supporting cartridges weighing 4.5 to 10 grams.
Suspension: 4-point spring chassis suspension to isolate external vibrations.
Evolution and Legacy
The 502-1: Dual later released a minor update, the CS 502-1, carrying forward similar core specifications through 1978.
This unit was fully serviced, including thorough cleaning, lubrication, adjustment and a new stylus.
