The problem with turntables is that they're very hard to compare. If you go in one store they'll have a certain cartridge mounted and be going through a certain phono preamp. They're not going to change that setup for you, even if they did carry another phono preamp, which most don't . So, you're almost stuck with reviews and buying online.
I've owned a 90's model Rega Planar 3, and a ten-thousand dollar Thorens. (I forgot the name.) Then I bought a used VPI TNT-3. The Thorens had more bloom and the Rega was faster. But I thought the VPI was the truest sounding of the lot.
I sold the TNT-3 because I was having trouble with the unipivot tonearm. The arm was fine, but I'm getting older and shakier and mounting a nude cartridge was more than I could take. I basically bought the same turntable with some updates, the VPI Prime Signature. The basic turntable comes in many flavors and prices. I'm sure the less expensive ones would sound fine.
Even if I had the time and energy to go around listening to turntables at various dealers, they just don't carry that big a selection. So, I trust VPI to have a solid, true sound, and if I needed a new one it would be another VPI.
I also really like the company. It's family owned in the USA, and if you call with a problem you might likely end up talking to the owner who's a really nice, helpful guy. And they don't ask if you bought the turntable used or new. They just help you.