New speakers for turntable ($500 range)

My turntable is an inexpensive, entry level Audio-Technica AT-LP60.  I originally bought it to listen to LPs I’ve been buying at the many concerts my spouse and I attend.  But the pandemic has ended concert-going for now, and being at home has given me a lot more time to focus on the system’s sound quality.

I’m open to upgrading on the power amp if you think that will make a noticeable difference.  The Denon PMA 600 looks intriguing and worth considering.  

Will the 16 gauge speaker wire be sufficient with the Wharfedale speakers your suggesting?

Also, how important is speaker placement?Although the turntable is in the dining room, I can play with the placement of the speakers. 

Clearly, I have a lot to learn, and as with anything I can see the domino effect of my buying decisions.  So, I appreciate your thoughts on what I should be considering as I make these next purchases.  For the near term, I’m budgeting about $600.  The Wharfedale / Denon combo sounds doable.  But is it even worth doing with the low budget turntable I currently have?  I’m not ready to do a complete system overhaul.

You have received, and seem to be taking, great advise. With a $600 budget I would consider the Wharfedale Diamond offered by Music Direct at $199 and the Denon or possibly the Yamaha A-S301 which can be had for $350. Buy some Monoprice 12ga in wall speaker cable off Ebay. The Yamaha has an internal phonostage and DAC. The phonostage will be much superior to the one in the LP60.

Once you have speaker and amp you can save for a TT upgrade. AT makes a TT, the AT-LP120 which would be a significant upgrade over the LP60. It comes with a superior cartridge also. I believe it sells for $260. Project and Music Hall also make quality budget TTs that come up discounted from time to time.

Good luck in your search.

Upgrading the amp will pay dividends with the speakers.  

The LP60 will be serviceable for now. The AT LP120 is an excellent starter TT. A steal @ $250. Significantly better than the LP60. I prefer it to the Pro-ject TTs at/ around the same price.  

But you can't do everything at once.

Don't get too worked up about cables. Good basic stuff will do you fine.  

Rich

I think mesch has given you some very solid advice. With his suggestions, you get out from under your current amp,and stay within your budget. My brother owns the yammy A-S301 and has it paired with Wharfedale Reva -1’s. It sounds very nice,for not a lot of cash. 

These go on sale every few weeks for $300. Grab them when they do. They are amazing. Check out the reviews on YouTube too. https://www.jbl.com/loudspeakers/STUDIO+530.html