People like to argue a lot in the hifi world, especially when it comes to belt drive and direct drive turntables. These arguments lead to confusion for people interested in buying a turntable and can cause paralysis analysis.
Friends tell me, “I want to buy a turntable but I’m confused on the difference between the models so I don’t know what to buy”. Often they are worried they will purchase the wrong kind of turntable and regret their decision.
They often have the same questions about direct drive turntables in particular so I decided to compile my most common answers in this article to hopefully help people’s decision be easier.
This article will start with some basic questions, probably best suited for first time turntable buyers…
What Are The Two Types of Turntables?
The main two types of turntables are belt drive and direct drive. A belt drive turntable uses a rubber belt to connect to a separate motor that rotates the platter, spinning the record for playback. A direct drive turntable’s platter is directly attached to the motor, eliminating the need for a belt.
What Is Better, Direct Drive or Belt?
Because a direct drive turntable’s platter is attached directly to the motor, it can cause more noise and vibration during playback. Therefore, some people claim belt drive turntables are better because the separated motor eliminates the noise caused by the direct drive’s motor.
I have both belt and direct drive turntables in my stereo systems at home. I have yet to hear enough noise coming from my direct drive turntables to completely advise against owning one. Two of my direct drive turntables are Technics SL-1200MK2s and I love using them for DJ’ing. Both tables have large vibration resistant feet that help keep noise from being audible. I’ve also reviewed the Pioneer PL-518 turntable where I purchased heavy duty isolation feet for the table which eliminated any audible vibration noises while in use.
That being said, if you are looking to buy your first turntable and worried that you will pick the wrong one by choosing either direct drive or belt drive, I wouldn’t worry about noisy playback as you most likely will not hear it.
I would focus more on other features like whether or not you want to change belts over time, if you want to use the turntable for DJ’ing or looking for pitch control options.
Do Direct Drive Turntables Have Belts?
Direct drive turntables do not have belts because a motor is attached directly to the platter for rotation. Belts wear out over time, stretch and can cause the turntable to rotate at the wrong speed, causing your turntable to sound slow. For this reason, some people prefer direct drive turntables where they never have to replace a belt.
What Is The Difference Between Direct Drive and Belt Drive?
The difference between direct drive and belt drive turntables is based on how the platter is rotated. A belt drive turntable’s motor uses a belt to spin the platter while a direct drive’s motor rotates the platter directly.
What Is The Difference Between Direct Drive and a Fully Automatic Turntable?
There is no difference between a direct drive and a fully automatic turntable. Fully automatic refers to a direct drive (or belt drive) turntable that begins playing when the start button is pressed and the arm lifts itself automatically to begin playing and returns to rest when finished playing the album side.
What is a Semiautomatic Turntable?
A semi-automatic turntable will either start or stop automatically, but not both. For instance, you can press the start button and the arm begins playing but when the album is over, the arm will remain in place. Or, you manually place the arm down to start and when complete, the arm will move back to rest.
Why is Direct Drive Better?
Direct drive turntables are considered better for anyone interested in not having to replace a worn out belt, prefer faster start up times and higher torque, like the ability to control tempo easily and have a better capability to scratch for DJ performances.
As mentioned, traditional audiophiles prefer belt drive turntables as they have quieter playback since the motor is not attached to the platter.
Can You Scratch or DJ With a Direct Drive Turntable?
Yes, you can scratch and DJ with a direct drive turntable, the most famous example being the Technics SL-1200 series used by DJs and MCs dating back to the 1970s.
Are Direct Drive Turntables Good?
Overall, direct drive turntables offer very good playback, especially for beginners who do not consider themselves audiophiles. Direct drive tables have a long life span and are easy to maintain, especially since they do not require replacing a worn out belt.
Should I Buy A Direct Drive or Belt Drive Turntable?
If you are a beginner buyer and shopping for a turntable that is easy to maintain, doesn’t require changing belts and allows you to DJ, a direct drive turntable is a great option. If you want the best possible audiophile sound from your turntable, I would then point you towards a belt drive.
Examples of Direct Drive Turntables
The most famous direct drive turntable is the Technics SL-1200 series that are commonly used by DJs to scratch and mix vinyl records.
I also own a Pioneer PL-560 turntable that I’ve used for over five years without any issues. A few summers ago, I picked up a JVC JL-F50 turntable off Craigslist while on vacation.
If you are interested in more modern direct drive turntables, the most popular would be the Audio Technica AT-120 series (affiliate link).
Hopefully this article helped you decided on which model turntable you would prefer to buy. Honestly, there isn’t a wrong choice as long as you buy a quality turntable overall.
Part of the fun of building a stereo system at home is upgrading components over time. A turntable you buy today might not be a good match for you as you upgrade other parts of your system like an amplifier or speakers and that’s okay. You can always research further and find a better turntable when that time comes.
But for now, if you’re just starting out, don’t stress too much on which design you buy. Both will serve you well as you begin to play your new vinyl purchases.
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