What turntable, $500 or less


Okay, so I'm thinking that I'd like to get back to vinyl. I say "back" because I used to "dj" (beat match and mix records). Anyways, I used, and liked, technics sl 1200 with ortofon cartrideges. How do these rate in the audiphile arena? What are your recommendations for a complete setup (catridge, turntable, tone arm, phono stage (never even knew about phono stages unril recently, and I still don't know much about them)? Thanks for your help!!
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Look for a used Denon 47F, one that can be picked up, no shipping. You will be pleased. Plenty of reviews.
The Pro-Ject Carbon at $399 sure looks promising and has garnered some favorable reviews. Helluva tonearm at that price.
I am in the same boat as you. Tomorrow I am previewing the Debut Carbon and The RPM 1.3. I have already heard the Rega RP1.

I own a Thorens 145mkii that I am getting sick of babysitting.....I just want a machine to play music, not fiddle with like a 20 year old car.....

I will let you know how it goes.....

db
I might be selling my entire Pro-ject Xpression III front end that was recently serviced at a local dealer. It also includes a phono tube box II that is only a couple months old and has upgraded tubes. It also includes a speed box I. I have made some upgrade choices so email me if you are interested.