Belt-driven turntables require turntable belts to operate. A belt-driven turntable connects a motor to the platter, or record playing surface, of the turntable and turns it. Rubber turntable belts come in a variety of widths and lengths, depending on the manufacturer. However, not all turntables require turntable belts to function. Some turntables are motorized or “direct drive,” meaning they use a small motor to turn the platter directly.
Because they allow for the use of a less expensive motor, belt-driven turntables are often less expensive to purchase than direct drive turntables. Both belt-driven and direct-drive turntables have their fans, and each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Many listeners believe that turntable belts are quieter than direct drive table motors, and that they provide a better listening experience. As a result, many audiophiles believe that belt-driven turntables are the most suitable for casual listening. DJs frequently use direct drive turntables because the direction of the record’s spin can be changed quickly. Direct drive turntables are often more durable than belt-driven turntables.
Turntable belts have the drawback of eventually failing and needing to be replaced. After years of use, turntable belts can become brittle or worn, resulting in poor sound quality from your record player. An old belt can be replaced or adjusted to improve sound quality. Replacement turntable belts may be difficult to come by in local stores, but they are widely available on the internet and simple to replace in most models. Measure the length and width of your turntable belt, as well as the make and model number of your turntable, to find a replacement.
Follow these simple instructions to replace turntable belts. Remove the rubber or felt mat from the platter first. This is normally where you would place a record that you are about to play. On the platter, there are a few access windows that you can use to lift the platter off the turntable. There may be an internal clip that needs to be disengaged. Dust the inside of the turntable with a lint-free cloth while the platter is off. Locate the motor and the pulley where the belt is attached visually. Then, loosely fit the new belt around the inner rim of the underside of the platter. Replace the platter and attach the belt to the motor through the access window near the pulley.