Juki DNU-1541 VS LU-1508 What is the difference in these very similar looking Machines?

I give a gross overview of some of the major differences between the Juki LU-1508 and Juki DNU-1541. Here are links to downloads of documentation with more complete specifications.
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Filmed, Edited and Produced by Jason Potts

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thanks for checking out my video. Be sure to click "SHOW MORE" above to expand the video description where I have many helpful links for you to explore.

[@nancycherotich4773]

Lllplpplpp

[@TheKhatum]

Love your channel!!!! All I want to know right now, in your opinion, what is the best Juki for denim, jeans specifically.. thank you !

[@polkunus]

I'd like to add that the LU series can also come in double needle configurations

[@andrewclarke598]

Thanks so much! I've been waiting for someone other that Juki or a Juki dealer to do a comparison like this. Really appreciate your work, Alexander!

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

Great review of these machines. I needed that look-over of these two machines again. Thank you! Have a great day!

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

Yes, Alex, as said below, YOU ARE THE EXPERT. I learn more from you about these machines and DIYs that from any other person. Thank you for your effort and your great videos! Have a great day!

[@lonelyzombie3128]

I have the Juki 1541 on my wish list. Great video. Thanks for doing a comparison of the two machines.

[@dannyl2598]

Thank you. I always look forward to seeing your videos and hearing what you have to say.

[@mattycorc]

Thank Alex for an awesome education on industrial machines! I posted a question on another video but deleted because I found the answer here! The 1508 is a beast and super smooth going through heavy material. I use this at my local makers space.

[@IRDeezlSmoke]

Super awesome. Thank you for this video explaining some differences. I have that exact 1541. It was not properly setup at the dealer when I bought it, and I still have some small issues, but it sure is a rough and tough machine. Again thank you for taking the time to make and publish all of these educational videos. I have learned a lot from you, and really appreciate people like you that are willing to share.

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thanks for your support.

[@TRADERnel]

Awesome. I've been waiting for a video that does a comparison of the same two machines. I see a lot of the guys use 1508. And 1541s. But I really didn't know the difference until you explained it I own a 1541. So far, it's great for what I do. Leather and heavy canvas I have a speed reducer and a Servo motor. Well, thanks for the video is awesome. As always.

[@katherinepoindexter4380]

I started my new job this past Tues. and I am sewing on the 1541. I love it. very very very nice machine.

[@petersiliekrause2203]

See? That’s why I love your videos: Informative and unjudgemental (is that a word?). Everybody can do with this information whatever he wants. While I find the top loading bobbin tempting, the oil bath is a no-go for my needs, so I‘ll rather go for a 1541. Thanks so much, regards from Germany 🇩🇪

[@tenleycotten9706]

I've sewn on both of these machines and man are they NICE!!! Great description, great video!!

[@AlexanderDyer]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@luckysinclair7327]

New subbie, very informitive as I myself seeking to know more about these juki, I intend on buying one soon

[@FreakyScaryChannel]

Thanks for the Video... My 1541 sews 207 top and 138 bottom all day long... I love this machine...

[@AlexanderDyer]

Very nice!

[@alexlysen896]

Absolutely! I like to experiment. I admire your knowledge,attention to details and presentation.Great job! Thank You so much!👍😎

[@AlexanderDyer]

😎👍

[@wljaggars541]

I ended up with a used 1508. One difference that had an impact on my work was the needle system on the 1508 is different than the 1541. There are limited chisel point leather needles in the 1508. I ended up adjusting and timing my machine for the shorter needle system of the 1541. Problem solved thanks to your videos and helpful online engineers manual.

[@1228carlito]

Which version of the 1508 do you have? The 1508N(S) shares the same needle family (135x17 or 135x16TRI(triangle leather tip)) as the DNU1541S. The 1508N(H) uses the 190 needle family. I hope you didn't downgrade from the 190 to the 135X17, as the 135X17 is definitely the lighter weight needle.

[@QuiltingOnABudgetVideos]

Love Juki... was making a bag tonight tried using one of my other machines and when it came to punching through all the layers I ended up having to use the Juki to get it done

[@AlexanderDyer]

They do tend to get it done.

[@venesoulana7671]

Your videos are LIFE SAVERS for me, I find them so handy I’m sharing these with my sewing groups on Facebook, everyday people ask the questions you so clearly and kindly explain in your videos. Thank you for what you do. Very much appreciated

[@AlexanderDyer]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@johnnymyers1668]

It's always good to see another upholsterer

[@ejshelby5460]

Great video! Mine is 1541, only challenge is the speed bump issue, but I’ll ask my technician on the alternating foot lift height thing

[@jampacked8239]

FYI the Juki 1510 is a step up (excuse the pun) from the 1508 and has the addition of easy foot step height adjustment - via a big white dial on the top. Obviously if climbing up to thicker materials or wading through springy padded material you set the step to high, dialing the steps down low reduces vibration & noise and is preferable for most seaming. If you anticipate spending many hours a week on the machine, this upgrade is worth the added expense. I've got a Xian Typical equivalent of the 1510, such Chinese machines I've found work perfectly well, but things like max step height and max knee lift height are slightly lower than their stated specifications.

[@stoneblue1795]

I have to argue one point with you, Alex. You are THE expert. At least as far as we are concerned my friend. Carry on!

[@AlexanderDyer]

LOL. You are always fun to read. Thank you.

[@alwice79]

I agree wholeheartedly, your the man!

[@skutovr]

I think only an “expert” would have both of these machines !

[@danzar1729]

Hi. Great video like always. Thank you.

[@GabyBobocea]

I have a 1510 N7 one of the best out there the CP180 control unit makes me smile every time I use it ...

[@AlexanderDyer]

👍

[@sunrisetacticalgear2676]

Old video, but I appreciate that you explained the difference. I have a 1508 and like the larger bobbin and I have extra slide plates that I keep different binding attachments on.

[@AlexanderDyer]

😃👋🙏

[@Gold_Hunt_Australia]

Thanks Alex love your reviews.

[@AlexanderDyer]

✨

[@lordkats]

Great review and thank you for posting. I can say from experience that if anyone wants to upgrade their LU-563 sewing machines, then I think the LU-1508 is the logical choice. They share the same bobbins for one thing but also that vertical hook is so much like the 653. I have three 563's, one 521 (double needle) and two 1508's. IMHO, the 1508 sews the best of all three. It's very neutral so it doesn't grab from the bottom like the 563s. Anyway, thanks for posting the reviews. I just wanted to add the point if anyone was upgrading from a 563, then the 1508 might be a better choice over the 1541.

[@AlexanderDyer]

Great stuff, Thanks

[@danfitzgerald5515]

Great comparison, thank you. I own a 1541 at home and I like it. At work I use the Pfaff 1245 and prefer the vertical axis hook as it lets me quickly check the remaining bobbin before starting a critical top stitch operation. To me, it's not about convenience of loading the bobbin, it's about the quick view without having to pull the bobbin. I would probably upgrade to the 1508 if the opportunity presented itself. I also like the idea of a larger capacity bobbin and thread size with the 1508.

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thank you for this perspective, it is an important point that you make.

[@SYBEX21]

THere are a lot of Dans on this page.

[@Tixoxod102]

Can You answer - which of 1245 or 1541 make better and more stable stitching, especially in term of knot stable positioning in thickness of material? Which of them is more comfortable (excluding bottom thread control)?

[@ritatumale2220]

Hi, Alex Thank You for these useful tips I am in the process of choosing which model of Juki's sewing Machine I should get. I appreciate it so much...

[@starkseys5070]

Great comparison. Are the walking feet between the two interchangeable? I’ve found a nice narrow foot for the 1508, but not the 1541(which I own)

[@quiltingforthesoul]

I’m looking at the Juki don’t know which one I want thank you 🙏

[@Robbie2613]

Thank you so much for this video. I picked up a used 1508NH, and I will replace the old motor for a 750W servo motor. What makes this machine "Heavy Duty"? Is this not largely determined by the power/torque of the motor, or does this machine have other features that make it more suited for heavy duty work? And do you know of any (moving arm) binder bracket that would fit this machine, since there seem to be very few parts and attachments for the 1508NH that I can find online. Thank you again for your great video's! Greetings, Rob (Netherlands)

[@davedave9780]

My 1508 is my favorite machine..I have 2 of them..I'm all about the top access to my bobbins.

[@AlexanderDyer]

It is a good one (or two) for sure. Thanks

[@kirstyjjamieson]

Appreciate your review. It still feels a bit hit or miss trying to fund current advice and recommendations on all these machines so thank you. Do you do support/online tutorials for beginners - who buy one of the machines you've reviewed?

[@AlexanderDyer]

Glad it was helpful! I don't do tutorials\support etc. Thank you very much for your comment and inquiry.

[@vieuxacadian9455]

thanks

[@mattycorc]

Also, I was wondering if you have any recommendations for a zigzag walking foot machine with similar abilities to the Juki 1500s? I have space issues with buying too many machines so I want something that will do both well. Thanks for all your awesome videos!!!!!

[@AlexanderDyer]

I get this one a lot. IDK Let us all know if you find it. There are walking foot zig zags but they are not triple feed. Triple feed zig zag, that just may be a unicorn.

[@mattycorc]

Thanks Alex. I’m aware I wouldn’t have the same triple feed action like on these beauties. I got furloughed for a few months and ended up just getting a used singer 20u as a temporary measure but will let you know when I finally make a big purchase.

[@kurtgray5008]

@@mattycorc LZH-1290

[@gerisyandrayusman241]

Thanks!

[@AlexanderDyer]

Welcome!

[@SYBEX21]

I love the channel. I run a juki at work (I need to get the model#) but is seems that wee are having trouble with the bobbin thread popping all the way through the material and no amount of top/bottom tension adjustments seems to get it back to the center. Any suggestions?

[@AlexanderDyer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpLbYYWKeNaMis0

[@perrypike90]

Have you tried adjusting the bobbin tension?

[@mandyhasler4802]

Love your work. BTW that thing you measured the bobbins with is pretty nifty. What is it called. I’d find a lot of uses for a metric version.

[@AlexanderDyer]

vernier caliper

[@perrypike90]

You can pick up a caliper fairly reasonable price at harbor freight. Most of the electrics calipers can measure between same and metric with the push of a button. Hope this info helps.

[@cyn4rest]

Hope you'll do a comparison between 1181 and the 15** (the front one in vid). Those are two I'm considering. I make bags but will seldom if ever use leather. Thanks. Love your channel!

[@cyn4rest]

I understand they're both walking feet but 1541 is a triple feed?

[@AlexanderDyer]

Yes the 1541 is triple feed and the 1181 is often referred to as top and bottom feed. The triple feed is a more sure feeding system and the 1181 is cheaper. I don't have an 1181.This video explains what a triple feed is kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6fVZKOElNqXg6M

[@cyn4rest]

@@AlexanderDyer thank you so much! Your info is always helpful.

[@sportsfan205]

I had a 1508N and had to replace the needle bar twice have to be very careful changing the needle the screw holding the needle strips very easy.

[@AlexanderDyer]

🤔

[@suhaimizainol1805]

I have problem to get the suitable needle size for LU 1508 NH...for leather and fabric. Can you give me the size and where to get those.. coz ive buy it schmetz but the needles a bit short. So i cant sew. Thank you

[@kenwallace8035]

The 1508 uses the 135 X 17 Needle system.

[@OnRappel]

Interesting. I just bought a used 1541S. The previous owner installed a 1508 tensioner plate. I was confused as to why. Should I leave it on or put the original tensioner plate back on?

[@AlexanderDyer]

That is a good plate. Enjoy.

[@user-gn4qt4nw7i]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge on these two machines. I have an opportunity to buy a used 6 year old lightly used 1508n for 2k. My other thought was to buy a new 1541s which would be about 2300.00 with shipping.. Im also a beginner. Which would you recommend? Thanks, Fred

[@AlexanderDyer]

There is no wrong answer here. I am partial to the 1508. These machines last and last so the lightly used older machine would not scare me. Even brand new machines require a little bit of tweaking to get them dialed in.

[@tilakrajsinghrathore6178]

Sir.pls.make video on juki lu 1560nfs.

[@mandyhasler4802]

Is the DNU1541 a recent model? When I enquired about it here in Australia, the Juki rep replied with info on DU-1181 machine?

[@AlexanderDyer]

Your rep should pay better attention to your requests. www.juki.co.jp/industrial_e/products_e/leather_e/plain_e/dnu15417dnu1541sdnu1541.html

[@mandyhasler4802]

Alexander Dyer thank you. Might find a better rep.

[@jayjohnson1440]

Awesome Video!

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thanks!

[@jayjohnson1440]

@@AlexanderDyer No thank you! Because of you, I upgraded to a 1508 and I could not be happier!

[@AlexanderDyer]

That is super cool. 💥😃

[@linpaing6178]

good

[@pablokin4793]

Good video

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thanks

[@allanrobichaud6872]

Alexander, that is helpful info on the differences which might justify (or explain) the price difference. Thanks for that. How many machines do I need? ...just one more. I'm on the fence between a Sailrite Fabricator with the Leather Package and the 1541s.

[@AlexanderDyer]

I am glad to hear that this video is still helpful to folks like you. I guess we all need that many machines, ha ha "just one more" I love that. Good luck.🍀

[@michaelstevenson9896]

Are you still reading your comments, because I'm having an issue with my juki 1541....run in reverse when trying to stitch...the runs forward when I try to put in reverse. Happened out of the blue! It's brand new!

[@AlexanderDyer]

is it sewing? If not then maybe the motor is turning your machine in the wrong direction.

[@alexlysen896]

Hi Alexander!On one of your video I‘ve spotted very cool presser foot,narrow and small installed on your JUKI 1508N.But it looks like it came from PFAFF (the screw facing left). Are they interchangeable? Did you ever try it? Just curious about shaft diameter,high versus stroke. You are right-sewing machines -fun!👍✌️😎

[@AlexanderDyer]

Actually it is from Kwok Hing KP1510 N081. Good luck trying to get it though. Let me know if you are successful and how you did it. Thank you.

[@kenwallace8035]

@@AlexanderDyer I was able to get one not too long ago. Took quite a while, from Hong Kong I think. KHSew was the company.

[@terrymohler2221]

I love my Juki 1508. You just have to remember to Hold the threads when starting to sew or it will make a mess in the bobbin.

[@AlexanderDyer]

Truth

[@Robbie2613]

Hello Terry, I just bought a 1508NH. Do you know of any binder brackets that would fit the 1508? Thanks, Rob

[@mannyvalenzuela8715]

Buy a bobbin slide plate with attachment holes in it. Most binders will adapt to them.

[@LifeOnBeagleRoad]

Alex, what online vendors have you used and trust to buy a Juki? Alot of the online vendors Ive come across have terrible customer service. Trying to find a trusted supplier.

[@aleksandraalexandra4787]

Hi where I can buy spare bobbins thx

[@rohlatramsbottom2751]

What would you recommend?

[@AlexanderDyer]

There is no wrong answer here. Look at the features and pick your favorite. I can't know what is best for you. Both are great.

[@vieuxacadian9455]

L and M bobbins of I'm correct . the 1508 H series has a longer needle unique to itself .

[@AlexanderDyer]

Yes that is right. My 1508 has been setup to use the longer needle system as if it were a 1508H.

[@senganicholson3611]

I have just got a new juki delivered. It came all built up and ready to sew. But it is sewing backwards. It’s so weird I have to press the reverse lever to sew forwards. Am I doing something wrong or is my machine faulty.

[@AlexanderDyer]

check to make sure the motor is turning the machine in the correct direction. Hand wheel over the top toward you at the front of the machine as if you are using it.

[@tkarlmann]

I was hoping you were going to go over the different feed mechanisms for each -- the 1541 having triple-feed, and the 1508 has a ??? feed.

[@AlexanderDyer]

They are the same, triple feed and therefore not a 'difference'. 😄 See what I did there?

[@tkarlmann]

@@AlexanderDyer OK!

[@SYBEX21]

Were I work we run the T70 & T90 thread all day.

[@AlexanderDyer]

If it ain't broke don't fix it. 😀👍

[@lindadawber5667]

Love your posts, thank you Alexander. Can a Servo be fitted to a Juki LU1508NH? The machine has a 1 HP motor which is very noisy. Would the Servo deliver the same power? Linda Dawber in New Zealand

[@AlexanderDyer]

I put servos on all my stuff. I have a servo on my 1508, works great.

[@suewat2918]

I have a 1541 but can’t seem to keep it going. I’m always knocking it out of timing. I decided to upgrade to the 1508 in hopes this would help me.

[@AlexanderDyer]

In all my experience I have never "knocked " a machine out of timing. I suspect another problem. 🤔

[@suewat2918]

@@AlexanderDyer thank you! I’m such a novice and I do suspect the machine.

[@wespassick8369]

looks like its been a while since the last comment, hope your still here. I am getting my first industrial, soon!!! I have two machines, both used. 1st choice is a Juki 1541s, it was bought at a liquidation auction and used in a canvas shop. It' the machine and table only $1000. 2nd choice is a Pfaff 1245, about 5 years old used by the guy selling it in his upholstery shop. He is retirering. Has a Sailrite servo, link belt, many feet, needles, thread, attachments and even some foam and material. $1500. I plan to do everything from backpacks to pool liners. I'm leaning heavily toward the Pfaff. Any thoughts?

[@AlexanderDyer]

You can't go wrong with either. That is the good news. Condition is a big factor. The Juki might be easier to get parts for.

[@wespassick8369]

@@AlexanderDyer I got the Pfaff, so far I am amazed at how easily it handles everything I've thrown at it. I might have over paid (according to some I've talked to) but I'm still glad I got it.

[@denisebooth866]

Does the 1508 have the triple feed?

[@AlexanderDyer]

yes

[@user-mc3hh1bw8k]

Question do you sell Juki products ?? thanks Gary

[@AlexanderDyer]

Only second hand and nothing right now.

[@leonyjulescesar7422]

j'aime la video

[@Tixoxod102]

Which of them make better stitching?

[@AlexanderDyer]

You would not be able to tell the difference between them were you to look at the seams produced by each one.

[@Tixoxod102]

@@AlexanderDyer do You have video with it's stitching?

[@AlexanderDyer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXPEp56cltmUn68 kzbin.info/www/bejne/lWbXq4Cvrsdpa5I kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3iTqWiuiKiUqK8

[@Cindy-sb5dv]

Good info. Links are not working!🤔

[@AlexanderDyer]

Thank you for the info. Fixed.

[@johnmwangi9943]

Hi, I would like a recommendation on a machine that can do canvass bags and do denim at the same time

[@jampacked8239]

Go with a needle-feed machine, not a walking foot. Good luck

[@drachenfeuer5042]

Love my 1508NH WORTH EVERY PENNY

[@Robbie2613]

@@drachenfeuer5042 Hello Daxx, I just bought a used 1805NH. What do you like about this machine in comparison to other compound feed machines. And it looks like it is hard to get attachments and parts for this machine, what's your experience with this? Thanks! Rob

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

I was told a horizontal axis hook isn't as strong as a vertical.

[@AlexanderDyer]

I don't share that opinion.

[@mahct09]

Another major difference. The hole for the needle on the feed dog is massive on the NH variant of the 1508. It was cause puckering on vegtan leathers you can't hammer out. The 1508N and 1541 have a smaller hole which doesn't pucker your your leather as badly. Hammering, bone knife or over stitch wheel can easily remove it.

[@AlexanderDyer]

Interesting point. Thanks

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

you can get different feed dogs and plates for these machine.

[@taherhazari5078]

How much

[@AlexanderDyer]

Juki 1541 amzn.to/38u6UoE Juki 1508 amzn.to/2VGfSfE

[@berkleyneely5795]

is it a walking foot machine.

[@emanuelsmedbl]

Yessir, they both are

[@richardgivens251]

On

[@cancelik]

actually, DNU-1541 is a copy of consew 206. thanks to its ''bobbin opener'' lever (what makes it unique among all other horizontal axis machines), it has ''zero thread damage'', flawless stitching.

[@someguydino6770]

Dude; just SAY IT" The 1541 uses an M size bobbin the 1508 uses a U size bobbin" ; perhaps you should consider rehearsing what you need to say BEFORE you start your presentation; SHEESH!

[@AlexanderDyer]

Oh, like you do in all your videos? No wait, it appears you don't make videos. Therefore I am not inclined to put much value on your rude comment about how I should do the thing you have never.

[@kenwallace8035]

@@AlexanderDyer Some people can't help themselves.

[@allanrobichaud6872]

Alex, your description of the difference in bobbins by dimension made good sense and more understandable than the "M" and "U" reference. Your approach was perfect, especially for beginners like me. Good job. Armchair critics should do their own vids.