Vintage Denon Direct Drive Turntable

A rare thing indeed when a direct drive table will sound even with a belt drive. I and a friend both owned "Big Dog" Denon tables in the 80s. We were encouraged to take home a flimsy $300 NAD belt table just for grins. Within 10 seconds of listening, we both looked at each other and simultaneously let out a profanity. Sold our tables and purchased new ARs with Sumiko arms and Talisman carts. End of story there.

To be more clear, I am considering buying this TT to recondition and experiment with it, and have no previous experience with Denon nor direct drive. The simplicity of a DD TT is appealing compared to a belt or even an idler wheel and if the speed and torque are well controlled and the motor is quiet, it might be quite a good solution.

Lewm, I have not seen the TT yet but what you describe sounds like they are the same. The arm is a DA 401 with unknown cartridge. If I liked the TT, I would consider remounting the DP80 as well, and would enjoy seeing how you are proceding.

Celtic, your experience is appreciated. Isn't it great when a comparison is absolutely obvious and there is no regret? Are you still using a belt drive?

Still, this forum is filled with those who are rethinking their drive technology.

Granted it will probably be a much more expensive experement, but the Teres Verus motor would let you experience the best of both worlds.

I have a Denon DP37F direct drive 'table with Sumiko Blue Point on it. It has reached 25 years (with 2 new drive motors), and works very well. I can't say enough good things about it. My big issue was with TT isolation, which I solved. It is also a very simple 'table to setup, and to use.

Just yesterday I got my DP55k table back from Denon. I had it in for service. The only problem I've had with it since purchasing it new (the DP55K table, DA307 arm, DL103-D cart. and AU320 transformer) close to 30 years ago. A testament to Denon for still supporting its products after so many years. In my experience, the big divide in opinions regarding the quality of sound from this genre of table comes down to what it is placed on. It took me a while to figure it out, but I could only get good sound when it was on a very high mass, well damped base, the likes of an old, heavy, wooden antique chest of drawers with the drawers filled. I remember the dealer who handled these tables at the time had sand filled pedestals for them. A typical component rack won't cut it. I think Lewm is on the right track with his suggestions for plinth improvements. The importance of isolating this type of table was addressed by VPI back in the day with their "VPI Base". I've never heard one on a VPI base, they come up for sale once in a blue moon. In short, no table is going to perform at its best unless it is properly set up, and that includes what is used as a base / support. Zargon, Lewm - I'd like to hear of your results /experiences. Best wishes.