What are your top 3 favorite turntable companies (manufacturer) and why?

For anyone considering an AR table, look for one from the 1980's, the ES-1. The 60's model has a terrible tonearm, the ES-1 could be had with no arm or a Jelco-sourced (I belive) one.

I have had three AR's, starting with the original back in 1969. In the 80's I bought one and cut the arm "housing" off the floating subchassis, mounting a unipivot in it's place. It worked okay, but when AR introduced the ES-1 I got myself one (and mounted a Rega RB300 on it), and liked it even more.

I then discovered the VPI HW-19, and the AR was history.

Acoustic Signature

VPI

Thorens

EAT/ Project 

any of these and go as far you there ladder as you can afford. I’ve owned all but VPI. Currently I have the NEO Hurricane from Acoustic Signature. Very pleased. 

Merrill-Williams

Kuzma

Townsend (older great value)

I am surprised Oracle isn't getting more love. My Alexandria Mk III is a sweetheart, even with the modest Sumiko Premier MMT with Cardas rewire.

Technics direct drive,like SL 1350 which is automatic. Fluance for starting out belt driven.Orginal AR 1.