New VPI

VPI AND Teres are finally coming around to what some audiophiles have been arguing for the last few years- direct drive, idler wheel- offer better dynamics, stability and tonal balance, than belt drive. Belts stretch, many times are askew and need constant adjustment. I have seen this with 2 high-end (expensive) belt drive tables. I almost bought a Teres, but seeing how much adjustments one had to do as every LP was played, broke the deal.
"I'm So Glad...I'm So Glad.." I was turned onto the Lenco on this site. It's easy to go crazy once you hear how much are in dem dare grooves. I now have 3 of these magnificent tables. I just commissioned 2 more exquisitely, beautiful plinths to go with their masterful sound.
The only difficulty will be which to keep and which to set free.
"...tired of weepin. tired of moanin'..."
Remember, friends don't let friends use belt drives.

Maybe it would've been easier for Harry, and the VPI folks just to use a "RD" suffix, designating "Rim Drive"? Sure begins to cause mucho confusion when one wishes to speak of any of thier Turntables. Mark

Can someone explain how the idler wheel, rim drive works?
(or a link to a previous post?)
Thanks!

Jimmyhaudio,
Just going by the photos, it appears that two electric motors are rotating a flywheel using belts (two per side = four belts?). A big disc (idler wheel) is afixed to the flywheel's shaft and rotates with it. A rubber O-ring encircles the idler wheel and moves with it. The rubber O-ring is in tangential contact with the rim of the record platter and causes the platter to rotate via the friction of the contact pressure. I hope to be able to see (hear!) one of these someday.

Smells a lot like a new fad to keep people spending.