Back to basics

Depends on budget -but probably can't go wrong with a VPI Traveler and Ortofon 2Mred cartridge.

1. VPI HW19 series. Provides value wayyyyyy beyond its price tag. Excellent turntables. Will smoke out just about anything in its used price range.

2.Technics 1200 if you are willing to do a little mod work.

A very source are the Virtual Systems here. A lot of inspirations and when you find something interesting, read the comments or try to get in touch with the owner for his opinion about it.

Don't know your budget but below find a list of plug and play tables to consider based on price range:

$100.00 Audio Technica AT PL60
$150.00 Denon DP-29F
$240.00 Audio Technica AT LP120-USB
$250.00 Music Hall USB-1
$330.00 Denon DP-300F
$350.00 Marantz TT42P
$399.00 Pro-ject Debut Carbon
$445.00 Rega RP1
$449.00 Music Hall MMF 2.2

However, having thousands of excellent graded lps, I strongly recommend that you start with at least the Pro-ject Debut Carbon which comes fitted with the excellent 2M Red. A better option would be the Rega RP1 with a better cart like the 2M red for around $550.00

The used marked has dozens of great choices between the $500.00 - $900 price range.

That said, the RP40 turntable currently selling in Audiogon for $995.00 is a STEAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RB303 Tonearm with steinless steel balance weight.
Custom matched TT-PSU.
Exclusive Red Silicon drive belt and Red Mat.
Exclusive Elys40 MM cartridge.
Aluminium foot trims and matching top brace.
Custom Titanium Plinth.

The TT-PSU sells for $395.00 alone, the RB303 for $595.00. The original price tag of this very limmited edition was $1,600.00

It has been in the market for a little while. Who knows, you may get it for much less.

Good luck and happy listening!

You are being selfless, given their will be grandchildren to support, not considering all the babysitting you will be doing. Give it up, man, your time has passed.