If you’re planning to buy a turntable for the first time or if you’re upgrading your current setup. Then there will come some confusion because Audio-Technica turntables are available in both belt drive and direct drive types. So it is important to know the differences and which type is right for you? The right choice may depend on a few factors.
Which is better belt drive or direct drive? There are several factors to checkout. So let’s learn more about belt drive and direct drive to help you to make an informed purchase decision. Let’s find out.
What is The Belt Drive Turntable?
Mostly all the turntables use belt drives to spin the device’s platter, but a belt drive uses an elastic belt that is directly attached to the turntable’s motor that offers quick and precise movements. Belt Drive Turntable is made from natural or synthetic rubber and the simple design even a modestly priced model can provide good sonic performance.
As the name suggests the belt drive uses a belt to spin the platter and keep the record rotating. But the belt tends to wear out, and it will need to be replaced that is a simple and inexpensive task.
Pros of Belt Drive
- The belt drive is made of elastic that absorbs shock, and it can reduce any harsh vibrations generated from the player’s motor.
- The belt drive would be a great option for those who want to protect their player’s platter over many years.
- Helps to reduce the vibration noise, a record player’s sound can be cleaner.
What is The Direct Drive Turntable?
The direct-drive turntable is directly attached to the player’s motor. No belt is required and it is mostly preferred by DJs because they can get up to speed almost instantly and spins freely with no resistance. The platter of Direct drive is less sensitive so it is easy to spin the record in either direction without the risk of damaging the motor
Pros of Direct Drive
- It is reliable and won’t run into belt degradation.
- Quick start-up time is a great feature.
- Durable design ensures a good investment.
Difference Between Belt-Drive and Direct Drive Turntables
Belt-drive Turntables
- The motor of the Belt-drive Turntables is positioned separately from the platter.
- A rubber belt acts as a pulley beneath the platter that controls the power of the motor as well as turning the platter.
- Less noise from the motor and it’s not directly under the platter.
- The sound quality is better on belt-driven units than on direct drive ones.
- You can’t control the better on belt-driven units than on direct drive ones.
Direct-drive Turntables
- It is generally preferred by DJs.
- The motor of the Direct drive turntables has placed directly under the platter.
- The design of the direct drive provides high torque and speed stability for quick starts to bring the next song in the queue.
- This is more preferable to help fit program material into an allotted time slot, beat-matching for artistic expression.
- It has fewer moving parts and no belt so it is very durable and there are no worn parts in the drive to replace.
- Good motor design and good dampening of crucial components minimize the amount of motor vibration that reaches the stylus assembly.
Also, read 10 Best Turntables Under $500 in 2020
Which is Better?
If you’re looking for high-quality sound, consistent playback, and a classic design then try to choose a belt-drive record player. And if you’re looking for durability, long-term play options, and ease of use then it’s great to consider the direct-drive turntable.
But both Turntables offer great benefits, and sometimes one source might sound better to some and the other will come up with another benefit. So it is better to test out a record player before making a choice and make sure to determine your priorities.
So now you know the differences between a direct drive and a belt-drive turntable without much problem. There are certain factors to look out for when deciding to get a turntable. So the best way to choose the right design is simple to use your ears and select the one. Hope you liked this article and found it useful, share your thoughts and ideas with us.