Looking for more advice on purchasing a new turntable.

finding a solid Garrard 301 with a decent arm is always one great answer to that $5k turntable question. most of those have had loving homes, if you watch closely for a month or so quickly you will learn about them; one ought to pop up maybe not too far away you can even go hear. and there are lots of hot rod parts that can be used to up the performance.

the 301 imparts an energy to the music beyond it’s price point. the 301 competes with the big boys in musical fun. and does not hurt that they look sexy as hell.

good luck with your search. happy turntable hunting.

@mikelavigne Or a less expensive 401. The earlier ones are better mechanically than 301s. 

I have a Rega P6 with an Ania Pro.  Although I have not used mine very much but when I do it sounds good and is reliable.  

Another VPI fan here. I always buy gently used as you'll get much more the dollar.

Soundsmith makes wonderful cartridges again I purchased gently used. You can usually buy for about half the price of new and his rebuild prices are extremely low. 

I find modern digital streaming and server files equal too or better than vinyl, without the required ritual of removing from storage and cleaning vinyl prior to playing to achieve good SQ and preserve the record.  In addition, attention to setup TT,TA, and Cartridge setup is critical for vinyl playback. IMHO why hassle unless an offering is not streaming, in your library, or you are just feeling nostalgic.  However, at your price point going preowned will get you much better SQ.  Some favs of mine are VPI, Linn, and SME.   Linn requires much attention to detail.  SME will be hard to find, but not impossible, at your budget.  VPI provides very easy setup and good SQ at their price point.   There is a VPI HRX with VPI JM 12.5  TA and Benz Micro cartridge for just over $5k on this site (no vested interest) and a Linn LP 12 with Dynevector