Where is the next generation of direct drive?

I hear a difference in favor of DD. There are many belt drives I've heard that I could easily enjoy but DD is not only more convenient, it also is more dynamic with more bass slam.
The problem with making modern "advances" in DD technology is the cost of doing that and the fact that you're dealing with a niche product. No large corporation is going to spend millions in R&D to sell a few hundred (or even thousand) turntables. The small manufacturers mostly just can't afford to. That's why the best vintage DDs are still the way to go for DD sound but have gone through the roof pricewise IMO. As long as my DDs are running I won't be going back to belts but I'm glad many prefer belt drive. It makes the old DDs a little more accessible.

I was not aware of the Wave Kinetics NVS until recently. It does look like an intriguing design and perhaps the best answer to the OP's question. Unfortunately, the cost is prohibitive for all but a few. Still, for a table of this magnitude it really is a good price. It does underscore the cost of making a good modern DD. I see on the website that they have a new TT expected by late this year. Does anyone know anything about this one yet? Will it be an attempt to hit a lower price point or take things even further?

I'm in the market for a Denon DP-100/M but it looks to me like the NVS would equal or exceed it. Unfortunately, I could buy three DP-100's for the price of one NVS (assuming I could find them). Mike, you must either be single or have a very understanding/supportive wife. Either way, good for you.