I use a SUPERIOR belt drive mechanism. under the platter a large 10lb. live rat (rodent) runs on a BELT, the heavy 50lb platter (and three ball govenor) does indeed smooth out any speed irreglarties. There is NO measurable rumble. Completely independant of powerline noise. Feeding and clean-up are manditory.
Is Direct Drive Really Better?
I've been reading and hearing more and more about the superiority of direct drive because it drives the platter rather than dragging it along by belt. It actually makes some sense if you think about cars. Belt drives rely on momentum from a heavy platter to cruise through tight spots. Direct drive actually powers the platter. Opinions?