Bang for the Buck

Not only ancillary, but a lot also depends on what you'll be using it with.

When I wanted to add a NEW TT to my collection of vintage TTs I chose the Pioneer PLX1000 ($700) along with the Denon 103R mc cartridge ($300). Listening has verified that this is an excellent combination! I'm using a Denon step up transformer into the RGR 4 preamp. Noise-free and dynamic music!

The PLX1000's build quality is as good as the several-times more-costly Technics. And it comes with an audiophile-quality IC! 

Turntable is brand new Technics SL1200GR and the cartridge is vintage AT-ML150 OCC or Stanton 881s mkII / Pickering XSV3000 just to name a few. Read why Stanton and AT-ML series are so good.

P.S. some vintage Direct Drive like Denon DP-80 can be better and cheaper than new Technics GR