Turntable Advice

I check with MUSIC DIRECT in Chicago. They have Demos closeouts etc. Also, I bought two used JVC QL50's; and had them sent to me from online. Those motors (Direct Drive) are still ROCK steady since 1978! Shipping is scary if you pay very much; as noted because you are at the mercy of what the person knows and does with Tables. I now have a VPI and I LOVE it. Got it through Amazon with My Amazon card; had (3) three years to pay it off; No Interest! Lots of Credit Cards have promos too. Demoed the Stock JVC QL5/stock cartridge and arm against VPI Classic/SoundSmith Zephyr. Wow that old JVC was closer to the VPI than I would have ever imagined??? $4,000 versus $150; I was sort of wondering in front of my friends how they could be that close, we all heard the same results the five of us. With VPI you need a new motor/belt anything they got it, fix it yourself easy. JVC 1978...well not so much! That is my foray back into Turntables. In the end I decided No interest loan, get the table to last a lifetime, I use it everyday! VPI made the most sense to me because of resale value, upgrades, new and used parts available on the sites. Do not want to get into Chevy is better than Ford is better than Dodge sort of car fight! They are all good or they would not stay in business. The good tables hold their value now. I would use "No Interest" to get a better table/cartridge package. Audio Research gear leads me to believe you are shooting to low to be happy? I also have ARC stuff. I have gone after a " No weak link" approach; so I do not criticize my weak link and my part in putting that weak in there? It makes music more fun, satisfying and enjoyable; how it is supposed to be.   B

Or, you could get a new Pioneer PLX 1000 reviewed recently in Stereophile by Herb Reichert, for about $695. It is basically identical to the old Technics 1200. Reichert thought some aspects better than certain VPI. Check it out. You might be happy. Best, Rob

Denon DP 52
Micro Seiki DD-35
Pioneer PL-L1000 or Phase Linear 8000 same decks with superior advantages of linear tracking. The linear tracking arm is easily adjustable serviceable and maintainable. Superior built quality Manuals, schematics in details available at vinyl engine for free.  
Technics 1100A -- 1200 killer.

thanks all for ideas, taking my time with this purchase.  

I would avoid direct drive because of feedback, both acoustic and mechanical  (footfall etc.). A belt drive suspended  table with a moving magnet cartridge would be the most cost effective. Any of the AR tables are great bang for the buck. If you can find a Sota or VIP at a reasonable price thAt would be the way to go. Cartridges? I like Grado, even the inexpensive ones sound excellent. More money = more refinement, openness, transparency, detail. If you want a more forward sound  ( rock, pop, jazz) I really like the Ortofon VMS cartridges. The VMS20 or 30 will require a lower arm mass than the old AR XA or XB but the  VMS3 or VMS5 or the FF15XE is a great buy and replacement styli are cheap and easy to find. Happy hunting!