Best bang for the buck turntable?

I think a $1k turntable will disappoint next to a $3k CD player, especially if a cartridge and phono pre are included in the $1k.

I would say you should budget nearer $2k total as a minimum, with something along the lines of a VPI scout, Nottingham Spacedeck, or Acoustic signature deck, and then choosing a $300+ cartridge to match the arm, and then a phono stage to match the cartridge.

If you've never setup a turntable then I'd recommend some dealer dems where you get the whole package from a dealer, who should also setup the cartridge and deck.

If you don't already have lots of LPs I'd focus on improving CD playback.

I would say the TW Acustic Raven One at 5K, with arm, is one of the best values in TT. Below that I would recommend the Acoustic Signature Final Tool at about 2.5 k

rega p3 300 tonearm and a dynavecter cart. theres alot more also a phono stage a cleaning machine, supplies figure another 1k at least. or music hall 7 if you want plug and play regas better however

I also only have a few albums (100 or so) and that is what has held me back. Also the maintenence issues the set-up the cleaning the snaps and pops.

Chuck