What is the best vintage TT for new audiophile?

I have owned several entry-level tables in the course of my fifty plus years as a music lover. My opinion is that the VPI HW-19 III or IV is hands down the very best "entry level" table (especially the IV!) and it outperforms many more costly offerings in today's market. With a good arm and cart and careful set-up, it is a marvelous performer. VPI still supports it (important) and all the performance mods and "DIY upgrades" are well-documented.

In addition, parts from the current line-up of VPI tables can be retro-fitted into the HW-19 in many cases. This provides and incremental upgrade path to near (if not equal or better) the level of performance of today's top VPI tables.

I would pass on the entry level Project or Rega offerings...3-400 in the used, vintage market can go a long ways...I have had good luck with quartz direct drive models...very quiet, reliable, low fuss tables...

I have to say that while I love the TD160 that I bought for a dear friend, when he bought an RP1 for a second system (same identical components,) he really fell more in love with vinyl. Not sure if it was a setup issue and the TD 160 was in great condition. I just think those Regas are great. An RP3 is a great place to start or a used P3 if that's more in the budget range.

Skvintage,

I went thru the entire process you are currently doing. Check out Vinyl Nirvana website, they completely refurbish Thoren & AR turntables. I ordered a Thorens 125TD with a SME arm all at a reasonable price. I decided on a vintage turntable that wouldn't break the bank. I have 2 watts amps and single driver speakers. All old school and it all sounds wonderful. Check out Vinyl Nirvana

"I'm only doing this once...". I've heard that before. IMO, unless you're an expert, if you want vinyl to be as grief-free as possible, I would stick with a modern turntable, purchased from a dealer who can help you with issues that inevitably arise. I didn't read every post, so I don't know what your budget is, but I can recommend anything from Linn or Basis. If you want to spend less, the Music Hall MMF 5/7 are nice tables, but I wouldn't go any lower. I'm not a big Rega fan, but they are also very good trouble-free tables.