Best phono player for newbie with good 2 ch system

Pioneer PLX1000 with Nagaoka MP150 will beat the Project.
Forget the Audio Sensibility Impact SE, it's dull sounding.

+1 on the Nagaoka!

Fluance has a good table near the $500 mark else would absolutely get the Technics 1200GR.
Keep in mind that the Schiit Sol turntable will be out within 2 months or so (lots of folks eagerly awaiting this) and should be around $600. So, may want to wait to check it out

The Pioneer PLX1000 with Nagaoka MP150 is a nice setup, but it is nearly $1000 new. That's fine if it's within the budget. The Pro-Ject Carbon Debut Esprit SB is a complete setup for less than $600.

I recently missed a nice, less than 1 year old, Pioneer PLX1000 w/Nagaoka MP110 for $525 on my local Craigslist. That would have been a great setup at that price.

+1 reubent and noromance! The Pioneer PLX1000 is a solid contender in the "best under $1K" TT's! A quality machine! I have one with a Denon 103R cartridge. If total cost is a factor, then buy the new Grado Black Prestige cartridge from Needle Doctor ($79).