1. Home
  2. analog
  3. 198890-2290

Replacing tonearm cable - Dual 604

I gave my son his grandfather’s old Dual 604 turntable. But there’s a short (hum) in one of the channels. I’m not sure where the short is (it changes sides when I swap the connections on the back of his receiver). I suppose it could be in the cartridge which is also at least 40 years old. It works for a while then the short appears. I’m thinking of replacing the tonearm cable first but am wondering if this is doable on this table given the construction. I’m not sure the tonearm can be easily removed but I’m handy and there’s not much to lose at this point.

Anyone have thoughts on this? I haven’t gotten into it yet but it doesn’t look nearly as simple as on my Clearaudio Innovation table. 

Other things I should try first? 

TIA

mgrif104

 

mgrif104
mgrif104 OP
574 posts
 

Thanks @dynacohum 

I actually did try replacing the rca plugs at the end of the output cable. Same result. It’s not a changer table and so the cable has plugs only at the one end. There’s a junction box of sorts under the deck where the tonearm cable is pinned and the output cable is soldered. 

I’m going to try replacing the cartridge with an inexpensive sumiko while also cleaning the contacts along the way as suggested. Fingers crossed.

 

elliottbnewcombjr
7,844 posts
 

The fact that the hum moved to the other side when you reversed the wires, is a clue.

Don't forget the jumper wires inside the headshell, clean, make snug, replace?

audihifi
9 posts
 

I have the 604 as well and experienced the same issue a few years ago when I resurrected it from the basement. Replaced the output cable at the source and the hum disappeared.  It was my first time ever soldering anything.  My bet is that’s what you need to do.  Good luck.

mgrif104 OP
574 posts
 

Thanks @audihifi 

Interesting that you experienced the same issue on this model. And, good to know you were able to fix it. 

Best,

 

audihifi
9 posts
 

Considering I bought my 604 new some 45+ years ago things tend to corrode/oxidize over time. It being a budget turntable probably has something to do with the quality of parts used perhaps as well. It’s a great starter TT and always appreciated the auto return function. 

More to discover