Pros and cons of belt drive Versus direct drive

I think in general belt drive is better. But if done correctly (to isolate vibration) direct drive can be better. Why do you think Rockport Sirus III (at a mere $75k) uses direct drive, and their lesser Sirus II uses belt drive? It's expensive to do direct drive right (although I doubt it's as expensive as the difference in price on the Sirus II vs III).

I agree with Abstract7; direct drive can be as good as belt drive if done right. If I recall correctly, the Goldmund Studio is a direct drive table based on a Technics SP-10.

BELT DRIVE!! 'nuff said...

If you could make a perfect motor direct drive might be better. As is motors are not and the cogging effect took direct drive out of high end. Garrards are still popular in GB but I dont think they can compete with good belt drives. It only makes sense to isolate the motor with a belt.

Good explanation, Celtic. It's all about proper design. I was told by Bill Parish (GTT Audio) that his TT for demoing equipment (I don't think he sells TTs) is a rim drive made in Switzerland. Told me it's so precised and rugged that it was used to cut masters. Which brings the point that masters are not cut with belt drives. Anyone who says belt drive is superior is biased.