I use to wonder: some TT motors derive their speed from the frequency of the mains. So supposing we use a step down transformer, will the TT run at correct speed? Or do direct drives have electronics that generate correct frequency internally?
The speed of turntables which have synchronous AC motors is
dependent on the mains frequency - they have a different pulley
for use with 50Hz.
Some TTs with synchronous motors (such as the Dual 1219/1229) have motor
windings which can be wired for either 220V or 110V,
but need to use the pulley appropriate for the mains frequency.
If the motor does not have such windings, you would need a step down/up
transformer as well as the appropriate pulley.
As greenhorn answered, the newer Direct drive turntables have fancy electronics inside them
to derive a steady speed from a quartz crystal and circuitry to control the motor.
On some of these TTs, these chips are rarer than hens teeth, so if some IC is toast, it's good bye TT,
while those Lencos, Garrards and Duals will keep running on