What's the deal with idler turntables and do they have a place in modern HiFi?


After going through a complete overhaul of an AR XA I've been tempted to take a step further back in history and restore an old Rek-O-Kut idler turntable. Can't remember the particular model number from Craigslist, but it seems like it may be an interesting project and far more customizable than the XA, especially when it come to the tonearm. The one I'm looking at comes with the original tonearm, but my guess is that it's even more garbage than the stock XA 'arm and I'd certainly replace it!

However, I don't generally become invested in something if it doesn't pay off. So if the sound is going to be dreadful because it's an idler, then I'll steer clear. But if the sound is bitchin' then I'll jump on the opportunity!
128x128mjperry96
Only theoretically idler drives have better speed control, but practically they're not. The idler wheel grinds out quite quick over the motor spindle and certainly changes the speed. All of the motor vibrations directly transferred onto the platter.  The best speed control have quartz direct drive turntables.
Hi Gmjperry96,

Given your propensity to play and learn, I say go for it.  I think you'll learn as much about yourself as you will about idlers vs. belts.

I've been working on a new turntable for about 18 months.  It didn't start out as an idler, but the design constraints presented to this chassis layout led me down that path.

The Eiger is definitely a different flavor from our belt driven Gavias and Stelvios.  I'd expect an equal number of people to line up in favor of belts and idlers.  Different strokes and all that.

To don_c55, people were saying that vinyl is a thing of the past as well.  Belts are unquestionably quieter and you'll get a different presentation from a belt driven architecture.  As much as I've optimized my belt driven turntables (and people say that they're very idler like in their rhythmic presentation), the perception of rhythm with the Eiger is completely different.  People value different attributes, and no one is superior to the other.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier Design
Hello Thom,
I appreciate your intelligent and honest response. You are right regarding the different types of turntable drive approaches. Be it idler arm, belt or direct drive, each has its strengths and flaws. I wish you much success with your Eiger turntable.
Charles,