Is one TT type inherently better than another? I see the rim drive VPI praised in the forum as well as the old idler arm. I've only experienced a direct drive Denon and a belt driven VPI Classic.
I own five tables right now, two DD, one idler and two belt drives, and the short answer to the question is "probably not, execution is most everything and all drive systems can sound damn good."
Belt drive is much better. When you connect the motor directly to the platter it introduces vibration. There are other things that effect sound quality, as well, but don't think too may people would disagree on the advantages of belt drive.
Ahhh, three posts and three opinions. Let me be the fourth post and fourth opinion.
All systems at their ultimate execution, direct drive is best. Between idler and belt they are almost perfectly split with dynamics and punch in favor of the idler and signal to noise and simplicity in favor of the belt drive.
Yes, I've owned all three, and multiple versions of each design type.
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