Where do I start?

If your processor has a phono input, all you probably need is a functional turntable and the associated cabling / ground wire.

As far as setting the table up, you can take it into a dealer and they can cover the basic install for you. Having said that, my experience is that they'll do the bare minimum to get the arm / cartridge / table working, so don't expect wonders or pay too much for this service.

If you're in the Chicagoland area, which i'm kinda guessing at going by your moniker, try contacting Bes at Music Direct. Depending on what you want done with your table and what you need, he can typically help you out at a reasonable cost and turn-around time. Sean
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A little more information might help... How many albums do you currently have? What is your budget, for TT setup and are budgeting for more album purchases, rcfs and rc machines? What equipment do you currently have? What kind of music do you listen to? Be aware you are opening a big can of worms here!

Make sure that your processer's "phono" input is a real phono input and not just a line input labeled phono. If it really is phono it's almost certainly a moving magnet input so make sure whatever table you get that the cartridge is MM, or if it's MC get either a step up or just a seperate MC phono stage. Happy listening!

I am starting from scratch, again. My budget would be in the $1000 range for the table and set up. No set budget for albums. I'll just keep building.I listen to a variety of music. Rock, jazz and blues mostly. But not limited to those.

My equipment consist of Sherbourne amp & proc. Paradigm Studio surround system. 40v3 for fronts a rears.

Should more money go towards the cartridge or table. Or should there be a balance. I'm also sure as this progresses, I will be upgrading in a couple of years. Hopefully anyway.

Thanks to all who help.

PS Sorry Sean. I'm in Tampa. The Bulls refers to the University of South Florida. Beware to the rest of the nation, in a couple years there will be 4 football powerhouses from Fl. USF football is young (10yrs) and growing. (Sorry for the little outburst. The season is just getting started.)