Looking for integrated amp with phono for starter

Marantz PM8004 at 1K list. Smart shopping should be able to get one for less.

Built at their reference factory in Japan, this integrated is not afraid to state its true specs - 70 wpc into 8, 100 wpc into 4, damping factor at 100, nice MM phono stage that will easily accommodate high output MC cartridges and a hefty 27 lbs. I heard one driving a pair of 10K Sonus Faber Cremona M's once, a 4 Ohm speaker, and was very impressed with its performance. Strongly suggest this goes on your friends short list.

BAT VK-300SE integrated.
While the (optional) phono section is not great,
the tube front end (6H30) and solid state muscle
amp (150 watts/ch @8 ohms, 300 @ 4 ohms) are
very musical.
I use one with an Ayre P5 and have no complaints.

Need to know the speakers before deciding on tube or SS.

Lowrider57 asks THE very important question. Example: I bought a Heathkit SA-3 on Ebay for $150 with original manual. (3 watts per channel) A GREAT underrated value with appropriate speakers.

I'd get the creek destiny if you could find one.