The bearing is designed competently bub - the heating arrangement further improves the operation. Yes there is a control circuit. The effect of the heating is quite audible and further improves the solidity and the timing of the sound (you can turn the heater off and check the effect). Play rock or dance on the brinkmann and the benefits over the sme will be clear. But of course it is german so you wont want that... especially as I recommend it.