What makes for a GOOD turntable.

Well to answer your question what makes a good TT, and why are there so many different opinions, the reason is most likely that TT building is not quite an exact science. There are law's of physics and with the use of some materials that work better than others. Many believe that the "MASS" of the platter and with its plinth are of great importance when dealing with vibration and proper placement. I would look towards a VPI used on the GON. They are well built and very easy to upgrade and sell.

The answer to your question is easy. The implementation is hard.

A good turntable does 2 things:
- it keeps external vibrations from affecting the sensitive cartridge as it reads the groove
- it maintains a stable speed

Of course there are other factors that affect the sound as well:
- an accurate and musical and dynamic cartridge
- an accurate and musical and dynamic phono stage
- all the wires in between
- the rest of the system and the room
- the record itself

There are many, many ways to try to meet the 2 TT goals, and that's where the art and science meet. There isn't just one best way.

Enjoy,
Bob

Here is a list of things to look for:

1) a robust drive (apparently, can be idler, belt or direct, if done right).
2) absolutely *no* bearing play (slop) or flexibility between the platter and the cantilever of the cartridge
3) in support of #2, the plinth where the platter bearing is mounted will be the same part as where the tone arm is mounted, and will be a rigid, non-resonant material. Rigidity between the platter bearing (which supports the platter) and the base of the arm is paramount.
4) the platter will be rigid and non-resonant
5) the platter pad will be energy absorptive, and ideally the same durometer of hardness as vinyl so that it does not depress as the needle passes over it, but does absorb all frequencies originating on the surface of the vinyl.
6) suspension is optional, if not suspended accommodation for that will be needed in the equipment stand. If suspended, will be damped so that oscillations die quickly.

I've stayed out of tone arm mention for the most part but obviously the arm plays a huge role and is part of the bearing system between the platter bearing and the cartridge cantilever.

going down the good-sounding vinyl road is just plain expensive; just replacing the cartridge (a nice one) every couple years or so will set you back some serious change. if the glorious sound of a properly set-up TT isn't enough to more than justify the cost, don't do it: digital is cheaper.