Both the frame of the CS 418 and the CS 518 are made of an MDF construction on which an aluminum die-cast platter rests, which is supposed to be precise and provide long-term stability. The two models also feature a DC motor with belt drive that is supposed to run smoothly and impress with a vibration-damped motor suspension.
Both come with largely identical equipment. Thus, each turntable has the cartridge Ortofon 2M Red and a switchable MM phono preamplifier on board. The CS 518 distinguishes itself primarily through its twin gimbal tonearm with pivot ball bearings and solid bearing construction; this one, as well as the somewhat simpler tonearm of the CS 418, are straight and balanced, and allow adjustment of tracking force and antiskating.
In Germany, Dual's new turntables are available now, the CS 418 with an MSRP of around €500, the CS 518 with an MSRP of around €650.