Fix or upgrade

[justaskin]

Hi, I have an old Dual 503-1 turntable. I think the cable that connects it to the amp id damaged. Every now and again I get a hum from the left speaker.
Question is; is it worth trying to fix or should I replace?? I am on a lower budget only due to time of use. I also have a Rank Domus turntable gifted to me that doesn't seem to work. Again any ideas?

Many thanks in advace

 

[Shrek]

try connecting the left plug to the right side on the Amp see if you still get a hum noise . I would also try connecting the left spear to the right the speaker terminal on the Amp to eliminate the speaker it self .

Its also worth checking the connections on the TT cartridge how old is the stylus and cartridge ?

 

[justaskin]

try connecting the left plug to the right side on the Amp see if you still get a hum noise . I would also try connecting the left spear to the right the speaker terminal on the Amp to eliminate the speaker it self .

Its also worth checking the connections on the TT cartridge how old is the stylus and cartridge ?

I really don't think it is the speakers. If I move the cables around it gets worse or stops.
Stylus and cartridge probably 20 plus years. Just been resurrected from my attic.

 

[Din5]

If its been 20yrs in the attic, it probably needs a good strip-down service, there's plenty of youtube videos to guide you.
I recently serviced my old Dual CS505-1 with good results.
When you have it open, inspect and test continuity of the phono to amp leads (replace with new leads if required), and clean the connections to the cartridge.
Your deck is worth saving ! let us know how you get on..

 

[nopiano]

Hi, I have an old Dual 503-1 turntable. I think the cable that connects it to the amp id damaged. Every now and again I get a hum from the left speaker.
Question is; is it worth trying to fix or should I replace?? I am on a lower budget only due to time of use. I also have a Rank Domus turntable gifted to me that doesn't seem to work. Again any ideas?

Many thanks in advace

Has the cable got visible damage, for example split insulation? Pretty rare to fail unless severely stressed, but highly likely to be at the connections into your amp. Or in the headshell which attaches the cartridge to the arm.

Do you remember how to remove the headshell? Take care of the stylus, preferably fit the little cover if you have it. Then secure the arm in the armrest. Then gently move the finger lift back, and the headshell should release. Those contacts are delicate and likely have corroded in the years that have passed, especially if it’s been stored other than indoors.

EDIT the 503-1 has a collar to release the headshell. My description was for earlier Duals!

 

[justaskin]

I have never tried to service a turntable but I am willing to give it a try. Leads into the deck are soldered so that will be my first challenge!1
Cables don't look damaged externally.

 

[Din5]

Try starting with these two videos part 1 & 2 :

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn4iuWWqb9c&t=2s

and

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngG2IXHUdZ0


Buy a cheap multimeter to test the leads for continuity (they all have an Ohms setting which is what you want).
You may not need to solder anything, but if you do then practice first on some bare wires with a cheap soldering iron.
If you need any help, just ask here...