I have a Rega R2 and really like it. It is ready to play. With all turntables the first step up is the cartridge. When I wanted to take the step, I got an Audio-Technica VM95ML. Even better, still affordable.
I think this will be a better choice for you at $1350. Given that this is factory refurbished but from a good dealer. It is a good table made by ClearAudio and comes with a very good ClearAudio Virtuoso Wood Ebony MM cartridge. Cartridge alone retails for about $1000. For a new table, you can also consider the MoFi StudioDeck Foundation for $1199 from the same dealer.
I got back into vinyl three years ago with aRega P3. Here is one for under your budget but most new are about $1,400. Besides being a great sounding table with many great reviews it's an easy set up. I'm using a Rega preamp, about $400 I think.
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