Low Volume from Dual Turntable (via preamp) with Cambridge Audio Amp

[Valentiaman]

I have a Dual 505 turntable (which I bought in 1985), connected to a Cambridge Audio Azur 540A amp (which I bought about 8 years ago).

The amp does not have a phono stage, so I have used both a Nad and Berhinger preamp with the Dual, plugged into the DAB inputs on the Azur (I have also tried every other input on the amp).

The volume from the turnable is low and muddy by comparison to the Sony CD player. I need to take the volume up to at least halfway, and usually 2/3rd up on the Azur to hear records. At that point, there is a noticeable hum from the speakers (I presume it's the amp).

I have had conflicting advice, from audiophile friends as to the cause. Some say the amp is the problem, and a hifi dealer told me it was the turntable (this was after I mentioned possibly buying the Rega Planar 1).

I would like to get this sorted, as I'm getting back into listening to vinyl. My speakers are Monitor Audio Bronze 2.

Any help would be welcome.

Stephen

[Smegger68]

What cartridge is fitted to the Dual?

[walpurgis]

What cartridge is in the Dual?

[Valentiaman]

Thanks guys, the cartridge is an Audio Technica 95e.

[walpurgis]

That should drive an MM input OK and any of the line level inputs on the amp should work with the phono stage. Is the stylus good? A worn stylus can reduce output.

[Valentiaman]

It's a brand new stylus and cartridge, less than a week old. I changed them both just in case that was the issue, but it sounds the same, low volume and muddy. My Sony CD player is very loud through the same amp.

(BTW Geoff, I seem to have duplicated this thread, below, and can't see how to delete it).

[walpurgis]

(BTW Geoff, I seem to have duplicated this thread, below, and can't see how to delete it).

Removed.

[walpurgis]

Double check the headshell connections to the cartridge. It could be a partial short or poor contact.

[Valentiaman]

They do seem quite loose, but not sure how to rectify it.

[walpurgis]

Gently crimp the tags a bit with narrow nosed pliers.

Are you sure the tags are on the correct pins? It occurs to me that an out of phase cartridge could be a potential cause of the symptoms.