The never-ending debate rages on - and the purists at both ends of the spectrum will never agree. So what about the rest of us ordinary people? How do we decide?
If you like to feel like you have more control over your turntable, then get a belt drive. That way you can buy different belts, use different lubricants for the spindle and motor, try different bearings and so on.
You also get to buy a Linn Sondek LP12 :)
However, if you don't want to hassle about all that stuff and just want the platter to spin around quietly and reliably then get a Direct Drive. There's a reason why the Technics SL-1200 Mkii is the worlds most enduring turntable - it's the motor.
Of course, not all direct drive or belt drive turntables are created equally - so it pays to investigate.
