New to TT's some advice questions

It looks like you'll need an outboard phono stage as I didn't find any phono board option on the SimAudio P7. You may wish to consider spending 1/3 to 1/2 of your budget on this.

It would also help to know what kinds of music you enjoy.

Go slow, and as suggested get your fee wet. Your vinyl memories may need a long time to reawaken, and at close to the $3K you are considering it could be an expensive memory. Look for a used Denon 47F, one which you can pick up, and marry it with a Denon 103 or 160. For less then $500 you will be in business. Once you are sure of your commitment to vinyl buy a VPI, and keep the Denon as a back up machine.

Thanks Guys for your feedback. I believe I am committed. I just love my speakers so much. I have been using a the NAD Masters M15 since I have owned the Dynaudio Confidence C1s and the Simaudio will be my first stereo pre/amp.

I have not listened to CDs etc like I would like to. I went in to audition a new HT pre/pro to replace my NAD and during the audition I enjoyed the experience so much (listened to a Classe stereo pre/amp). I didn't but these wonderful speakers (my opinion) just for HT and I am ready for the next level.

I research everything to death before I audition. The salesman at the store is strongly suggesting I listen to a used unit they are selling for someone. I believe he stated it was a Scoutmaster and I do not remember the cartridge. A $4500 rig at $2200 I think he said. 18 months old. We will see but I am just trying to be armed with my own opinions thru suggestions and research before I go.

My taste is classic rock, pop and Jazz and R&B. I really have enjoyed listening to some piano and other intrumentals as the C1s are great for this.

I want to check out the Simaudio stereo pre/amp, cleaner and a cartridge are not part of my listed budget.

A short list from the little bit of research.
Music Hall MMF 9.1
Rega P7
Project RM10.1
VPI Classic 1 or 2
VPI Scoutmaster (the used unit)

The VPI Classic seems to get some really excellent reviews here. Whats the diff between Classic 1 and 2?

Thanks guys...

Of the ones you listed, go with VPI, IMO. Personally, I favor a vintage Lenco or Denon for low buck pleasure (<$1000), but if I were to choose the Denon option, I would go for something above the DP47 suggested above. The Denons are still undervalued and so there is not much difference (a few hundred bucks) in the cost of a DP47 and, for example, the top of that line, the DP80, which can hold its own with a Technics SP10 Mk2. (DP80s have become rather rare to find, I admit.) The DP6000 and DP62 and 57 are other lesser but still good ones to look for. For the amount of dough quoted above, you might also find a revamped and ready to use SP10 Mk2.

For vinyl newbies, I generally recommend buying thru a trusted local dealer who can help you out with all the set up issues (Cartridge matching,VTA,VTF etc..).

VPI,Clear Audio,Rega,Nottingham,and Well Tempered are some Mfg's that come to mind that have good (new) product in your price range.

While you would undoubtedly get more for your money buying used, I generally advice against that for newbies. Once you have some experience, no problem.