Looking for a mid-priced TT to install my 2M Black Cart

There is one Idler Drive that is so attractive: Restored Hammertone Garrard 301 from Audio Grail, especially in Artisan Fidelity plinth 

Aesthetically to die for (imo)

In my opinion this is a state of the art in terms of design, the only problem is the price which is higher than most expensive direct drive. I've never tried this turntable, but i wish to have one in collection. 

bsmg, The fact that most people do use belt-drive turntables is mostly a result of decades of market pressure, not a careful analysis of the virtues of each drive system.  However, your point about wanting to be left alone is valid.  Certainly, no harm will come to your ears, if you continue to listen to belt-drive turntables.  I think Chakster (and I) were stimulated to respond by your statement that DD turntables are inherently subject to "noise and vibration".  That assertion is incorrect and represents the propaganda exuded by commercial entities that wanted to promote belt-drive over all, starting back in the late 1980s.  Because belt-drive turntables are far easier to conceive and build than are DD turntables.  I think it represents a misconception around the basic mechanism of DD.  If you want to be enlightened, that could happen.  But otherwise, vaya con dios.

Well, Lewm, I never asked to be "left alone" by stating that I have never had and will never have a dd table. The fact remains that (1) most tables are not dd. (2) they never had a majority share of the market. (3) a platter direct coupled to a motor spindle will have vibration and noise transmitted through it; you probably won't hear it, but it's there.....it's physics, not a product defect; same with belt drive but the vibration and noise is dissipated by the rubber belt. Just as you apparently will never again have a belt drive, I have no problem with that (and I don't consider you to be un enlightened for doing so as you apparently think I am for my choice....cute); no different than preferring GM over Ford or front wheel drive to rear wheel drive.....they both work. As for being enlightened, I am. I am cognizant of the pros and cons of both drive systems and will stick with belt drive. The only example of market hype I can think of is Bose speakers. I was involved in the audio business in the late 70's and early 80's when dd was relatively new. I don't know why it never took hold. Looks to me like democratic process in action, though. Cheers.

@chakster Heartened to see you endorse Garrard idlers. I run two Audiograil 401s (with custom idlers and platter, in ply and slate plinths) and wish for nothing else. Anyone in the market for an excellent table should consider one. 

Bsmg,

To me a DD table is a much more engaging and dynamic presentation of the music than any belt drive - and I've have made plenty of both.  I have never had a customer that upgraded to a DD table tell me that they did not prefer it to a Belt Drive.  

Good Listening, Belt or Direct :-)

Peter