Best TT setup for 2k

Yeah I would love to listen for myself before I buy but it’s not very feasible. Nowhere within several hours that sells this stuff and even then I would be hearing it on a totally different system. I try to buy used anytime I can or get at least a 20% discount on new. That way I can keep playing around and not losing money while doing it. Usually make a few bucks since I buy smart. 
 

I just realized my Micromega M100 has a phono input. I do however think it digitizes the analog with bothers the crap out of me but…. If it sounds good I guess. It’s ok. 
 

I was planning on hooking the TT up to a tube integrated but will try this first. 

I hear you man. Getting back into vinyl was a different thing than I remembered from way back. Since I got lucky with the TT that I chose, it was the preamp that made the most difference. I have had too many ’sigh’ good enough preamps (4 total) that didn’t bring to the table what I remembered vinyl to be. For me, the price of a Jolida PH9 was the ticket. Yah, of course it was used but in great shape. After changing out the tubes to ones that had less gain the match was perfect for me. I have tried two TT so far, and it was a close race sonically. Between a Project 2Xprerience and a Schiit SOL, the SOL barely won out just for the challenge of getting it all right and then enjoying the music. I found that for my system and budget, that an AT95SA cartridge from LP Gear to be better than I thought it would. So $190 for the cartridge, $500 for the used SOL, and $400 for the Jolida makes me surprised at the performance that can be had at the price. If anything, I would be likely to upgrade the cartridge in the future, and the TT and pre will handle it all nicely.

Everything I have had from Jolida is freakin excellent for the price. I don’t doubt the phono preamp is very good and it’s one I’m considering. 
 

I just bought a Jolida 302CRC with some pretty nice tubes in it and kinda dumbfounded at how good it is. One of the amps I use and pushing 150lb speakers and it really sounds great. 

Agree with the positive comments regarding Jolida. Their new company, Black Ice Audio, is even better. Their Fusion MkIII phono stage retails for $850.

A Rega P6 with a Soundsmith Otello cartridge would come in right around $2k if you can find a P6. Unfortunately the Rega factory is overwhelmed with demand and due to logistics issues and inflation, prices are going up on January 1st. Still many vendors are out of Rega product with no end in sight.

Great hi fidelity sound from vinyl depends upon clean records. In addition to the TT, pre-amp, etc. have you or are you giving any thought to getting and keeping your records clean?