turntable choice

Buy the whole thing from a dealer who can set it up well. That's the most important variable.

Good luck.

I would personally save up for the pro-ject the classic turntable with the 2m silver cartridge. It will set you back $1099., but it will be worth it not only for the sound, but for the beautiful aesthetics of the table itself. I think you will be glad you did....
Alternatively, you could also save up and grab the thorens td240 fully auto turntable....I know some will bash it but they probably have not heard it. Its built similar to the dual turntables and at least to me sounds terrific and adds convenience of full auto operation. I scored one for just $835 brand new in the walnut veneer with the ortofon om10 cartridge installed in a super light arm. Beautiful table....

Just an added thought....grab a usb camera on Amazon for $19 bucks...best thing I ever bought. It is unreal how well it works for the price. It will make seeing the stylus tip and cantilever so much easier when aligning a new cartridge. Using this device, even a novice can set up a cartridge like a pro. I use it with my lap top and I’m amazed by how clear a picture it provides.

I bought my son the project debut carbon Ortofon 2M Red for xmas from Best Buy, $399 last year. He had the Audio Technica LP120 Direct Drive prior and was debating if he would like the belt drive, but told me he really likes it's simplicity. His house has old wood floors, so he upgraded feet to these Isolation feet,  https://mnpctech.com/turntable-feet-replacement-isolation/

My first TT was the Project Debut Carbon. I disagree with holomech about build quality of the uturn vs project.  The debut carbon is a simple and good sounding entry . No fuss no muss. Comes w a ortofon red which, for the money, is a solid cart. 

With that kind of money two things are going to happen:  You will love vinyl play back and upgrade pretty quickly.  Or you find vinyl is not for you and sell it.  Advice, get a TT with a tonearm that has a removal headshell. You are going to change the cartridge quickly and change outs are easier with that type of arm.