There are three main types of
phonograph turntable drives still being manufactured today, the
belt-drive,
idler-wheel and
direct-drive systems; the names are based upon the type of coupling used between the platter of the turntable and the motor. In a belt-drive turntable the
motor is located off-center from the platter, either underneath it or entirely outside of it, and is connected to the platter or counter-platter by a
drive belt made from
elastomeric material.