What makes for a GOOD turntable.


Why is it my Music Hall MMF5 has a project tonearm and why is it the Project 9.1's motor isnt attached to the TT platter isnt that an accident waiting to happen? And why are there some mnay different opinions about whats right and whats wrong?

Basically high audio is a hobby where you can waste alot of hard earned money when all some people want to good solid equipment.

I am determined to find the truth what really makes a GOOD TT? I dont need the latest and greatest because one the prices are insane and your not even paying for the quality of the TT your paying the engineers salary who stayed up late thinking of the next big time under pressure from the marketing team.

So with that said what makes a GOOD TT. And please no suggestions over say $2500 cause that i just dont agree with.
128x128thegoldenear
I agree with simple solid turntable design. I've no experience with Lenco but I have had a couple of Micro Seikis (MR611 for 20 years and now a BL51). Very solid, very well built and prices are reasonable unless you go for the Uber Micro Seikis (wonderful machines but beyond my budget). I would also add that the speed is stable on my belt drive Micro Seiki.

As such I'd say look for a good second hand Micro Seiki, what Oregon says about the Lenco's is quite similar to what I'd say about Micro Seikis. SImple design very well engineered and built.

DS
I agree that a used VPI is likely to be the best option, they are available at good prices on audiogon. As to what makes a good turntable many of the factors have been mentioned. One that should be stressed is the isolation of the table from the motor. This was the deciding factor in the direct drive vs belt drive war that I thought had been decided in the early 80s but apparently rages unabated in certain circles. The Lenco also isolates the motor by using idler drive.
Atmasphere
Please let me know your opinion on the Scheu inverted bearing and platter and also on the Teres bearing.
regards
George