There really isn't a straight answer for this question....
If you are going for audio quality, then look into getting the nicest belt drive turntable you can find. Belt drive tables have a more even playback because the plate is removed from the drive mechanism by a band that evens out irregularities generated by mechanical motion.....
however....
You have to be really ginger with a high quality belt drive table, or you're going to be paying repair bills on the constant...no scratching or backspinning. Plus high end belt drive tables are not going to have pitch variation like DJ tables do (which may or may not matter to you). All of these things being standard (and often used) features of direct-drive decks.
In the end, I'd say the thing to worry about is cartridges and needles more than turntables. As far as needles go.... I have no idea!