Why do turntables sound different?

It's ALL about the VIBRATIONS! Every part of every TT vibrates! Some more or less than others! And the stylus "reads" these along with the vibrations in the LP grooves. So controlling and eliminating the mechanical vibrations from the TT is a major challenge for designers. And of course some TT's do IT better than others! Rekokut vs. Continuum!

TTs OUT of the room !! In fact all equipment OUT of the room.

Speakers and amps in room.

Long ICs , Short SCs

Does not mean that you will not need a decent rack and some isolation footers, spikes etc. but you won't need to spend big $$.

If your serious about Vinyl ?? At minimum; TT out of room. IMO.

@roberjerman ~ I agree with you, vibrations is where it's at.  Let's also add speed stability in rotating the platter.