System Advice

Thanks!! 

What about an Arcam A15?

I'm currently running Totem Sky Towers with Belles Aria Signature Integrated, though previously used the basic Aria Integrated, both sound great and have a surprisingly good built in phono stage...used Aria will fit your budget...

@aarongreenb ,

For a thousand bucks new, you get a lot! Sabre dac, mm phono, 80 watts, definitely a contender. I myself look for deals on higher end used, like @jl35 suggested.

Quick sidetrack to @jl35 , was the Signature worth the upgrade?

For me, the Signature absolutely worth the upgrade...

$1k for a integrated, and $1k for a TT. Would go the used route. 

Figure out what things you need and what things you want. That should help you figure out what to buy. With used, you are stuck with what is available. 

1. Power (watts)

2. internal pre-amp (MC or MM&MC?)

3. internal DAC, streaming, or nothing

4. remote control?

5. size, where will it live, does it have proper ventilation?

6. EQ, room correction, tone controls

On the TT

1. size, do you have a space for it

2. MM or MC

3. Full auto, full manual, or in-between?

4. belt drive, direct, idler?

5. arm type, ease of use/setup

6. headhshell?