williams-sonics

Choosing a Drive Belt for Connoisseur BD1/BD2/BD2A Turntables Many vinyl lovers have come to me with issues they’re having with their Connoisseur turntables stemming from the various replacement drive belts they have purchased over the internet.   I have sold my williams-sonics service kit to many of these enthusiasts to rectify their issues and bring their Connoisseur back to life. The Sugden Connoisseur BD1 and BD2 turntables are high quality transcription turntables capable of a very high level of reproduction whilst rendering a highly musical sound.   This is because A.R. Sugden gave importance to all aspects of his designs including the belts.   He had the belts made of natural rubber because of its ability to absorb his turntable motor vibrations - inevitable in all motors to some degree.   His natural rubber belt also drove the platter effectively.   Genuine Sugden belts are no longer available, so the market has seen everybody and their dog selling belts to fill that

Were all genuine Connoisseur BD1/2 turntable belts the same? I had noticed over the years differences in drive belt diameter but never measured them before, no need to, just buy replacement genuine parts.   Things are different now with T&G gone, nothing lasts for ever even though we would like it to. The following comparison of genuine belts comes from my personal stock.   One of the belts I purchased from T&G before they ceased trading and the other is from a BD1 Kit from Sugden, possibly one of the last kits they sold. Sugden belt from BD1 kit: On the right is the T&G, on the left is the Sugden: 1. Supplier: Technical & General Belt diameter: 2.14mm +/- 0.01mm Belt speed: On both 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm belt runs very slightly fast. Belt length: 830mm approx. 2. Supplier: Sugden, from a new old stock BD1 Kit, maybe the last they made. Belt diameter: 1.9mm +/- 0.01mm Belt speed: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm belt runs slightly slow.