About the Dual CS 618Q
Dual CS 618Q: Direct-Drive Turntable with Auto Lift
The Dual CS 618Q combines a quartz-stabilized direct-drive platform with the convenience of an automatic lift at the end of a side. Its twin-gimbal tonearm and supplied Ortofon 2M Blue make it a complete starting point for a dedicated vinyl source.
System matching
A switchable built-in phono stage lets you connect to a suitable line input, or bypass it for your own phono stage. Use phono mode with a compatible phono input; line mode is for a line-level input.
How it fits the Dual range
The CS 618Q moves from the CS 518’s belt drive to quartz-stabilized direct drive, adds automatic end-of-side lift and motor stop, and includes an Ortofon 2M Blue rather than a 2M Red.
Specifications
| Drive | Quartz-stabilized direct drive |
|---|---|
| Operation | Manual start with switchable automatic tonearm lift and motor stop |
| Speeds | 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm |
| Tonearm | Twin-gimbal aluminum tonearm with four fine pivot ball bearings |
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Blue |
| Connections | Switchable built-in phono preamplifier; RCA phono or line output |
| Dimensions | 435 × 367 × 145 mm (W × D × H, dustcover closed) |
| Net weight | 7.5 kg |
Independent review
In What Hi-Fi?’s CS 618Q review, the review team praised its detailed, composed presentation and useful auto-lift feature, while preferring the dynamics and rhythmic engagement of some rivals and recommending an external phono stage for further improvement.
For shellac 78 rpm records, use a suitable 78 rpm stylus or cartridge; the normal LP stylus is not intended for shellac playback.
Warranty
Dual’s CS-Series consumer warranty covers manufacturing and design defects for five years from the original purchase invoice, subject to its terms. Wear items including the belt, cartridge and stylus are excluded. Keep your original invoice.
Details
Engineering & Technology
Engineering & Technology
Designed around your listening
Listeners who want to cue records manually but prefer an automatic tonearm lift and motor stop at the end of a side.
- Quartz-stabilized direct drive
- Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge included
- Switchable automatic lift and motor stop
- Twin-gimbal tonearm and removable headshell
Complete Specifications
Complete Specifications
| Outputs |
|
|---|---|
| Dimensions (mm) | 435 × 367 × 145 mm (W × D × H, dustcover closed) |
FAQ
FAQ
What is the Dual CS 618Q, and who is it for?
Dual CS 618Q is a direct-drive turntable with auto lift. Listeners who want to cue records manually but prefer an automatic tonearm lift and motor stop at the end of a side.
Is the CS 618Q automatic or manual, and how is it driven?
Manual start with switchable automatic tonearm lift and motor stop. It uses quartz-stabilized direct drive. It does not automatically place the stylus at the start or return the arm to its rest.
Does the CS 618Q include a cartridge and phono stage?
Yes. It includes an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and a switchable built-in phono preamplifier. Use line mode for a line input or bypass the built-in stage when using a suitable phono input.
Which record speeds does the CS 618Q support?
It supports 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm. A suitable 78 rpm stylus or cartridge is required for shellac records.
How does the CS 618Q compare with nearby Dual models?
The CS 618Q moves from the CS 518’s belt drive to quartz-stabilized direct drive, adds automatic end-of-side lift and motor stop, and includes an Ortofon 2M Blue rather than a 2M Red.
What should I know about setting up the CS 618Q?
Complete assembly and set the tonearm balance, cartridge tracking force and antiskating as described in the Dual manual. Choose the correct phono or line output setting for your amplifier.
Shipping & Warranty
Shipping & Warranty
Warranty: 5-year Dual CS-Series warranty; original invoice required; belt, cartridge and stylus excluded
HiFi Boutique ships within the United States only. Orders ship within 2 business days, with a tracking number. See the shipping policy.