Is Direct Drive Really Better?

Dear Zaikesman: +++++ " To me the real-world value of DD might be where it is right now ..." +++++

I agree, we can buy a SP10 MK2 for 400.00 dls ( with out plynth and tonearm ), a Denon DP 800 for 500.00 0r a SP 10 MK3 for 1,200.00. Btw, all these TT designs comes from more than 20 years ago!!!! ). Any one of these TTs ( with the right plynth/footers/tonearm/mat) can compete not with ++++" any belt-driver in its price range. " ++++ ( like you say ) but with the 40K+ Walker BD TT and for a ridiculous price fraction.

+++++ " Which drive method is allegedly "superior" .." +++++

IN my opinion and if we take only the drive system " per se " then the DD is a superior drive system over the BD one. The first and most important function on a TT is the speed accuracy/stability and here the BD system can't compete with the DD system and this is a fact that any one can see it through measurements and own TT specs, period. Btw, ( at least on my TTs ) one musical reproduction characteristic on the DD TT is the more real and natural decay time of the notes, this give to the sound reproduction a better feel of the " live music " against the BD TT.

+++ " .. the evidence could point toward factors other than drive method ruling the roost at that level. " ++++

Yes, there are several other factors than drive system where one or the other could be superior.

About Stereophile: well the champion at the moment is the BD design Continuum for around 90K, speed accuracy? : 0.006%.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Raul: I wouldn't know about the sound quality of relatively inexpensive DD's competing beyond their price range (though you might), I was only stating about their speed accuracy and precision. But a caveat has to be acknowledged: published speed distortion specs only deal with combined gross levels, leaving us in the dark about spectral and temporal character. The possibility exists for one TT to have lower measured speed distortion than another, but of a sonically nastier nature.

It would be very hard to find an SP-10MKIII for 1200.00 in any decent condition. The last one I saw on eBay went for well over 4000.00.

So...now I have to look into DD or Idle-wheel drive TT?

Here I am ready to upgrade my TT and arm with a VPI, Galibier or Teres and a Schroder or Tri-Planer. Now we have the Garrard 301 Idle-wheel......and Lenco.....OH MY!!!! Now you have force me to read the entire "Home Depot" thread :(!!!

Rick (RWD)

For people like Raoul, don't forget EMT idler drives.