Vdosc: you've gotten a range of good suggestions, but now that you have
narrowed it to a decent starter table, my vote, for set and forget (once a
dealer does the set-up competently), would be the VPI Traveler. VPI makes
no nonsense tables (including some very serious ones) that have had few
complaints over the years, and this one is truly an entry level table. I
haven't played with it, and no doubt, some of the more expensive VPI
tables (and others) will better it, but it will get the basics right.
I'll link to a recent review (the table just came out) where the reviewer also
touts a relatively inexpensive phono stage that may be just the ticket, and
would enable you to use a range of cartridges. I'm not sure I'd go with the
cartridge option that is offered with the VPI. You might look at some of the
less expensive Benz Micro cartridges as a possibility.
Keep in mind that the turntable will lend a character to the sound, and the
phonostage and the cartridge may have even more pronounced sonic
characteristics. (The difference in turntables is often the 'absence' of
grunge, or low level noise in the background, not hum or grinding, but sort
of a veil that you only notice when it is no longer there). Vinyl devotees will
spend alot of time (and money) getting it right. Here's a link to the review of
the table and phono stage, combined you are done for a little over 2 grand,
sans cartridge:
http://positive-feedback.com/Issue61/traveler.htm
