Want to try vinyl - What equipment do I need?

Thanks for the responses. I had missed the fact that my Denon 3300 has a phono input. That's good news. I've got quite a few old LPs in storage from back in the day that should still be in very good condition, since I was pretty meticulous in using and caring for them. I'll have to check out the Spin Clean, and thanks for the tip. Now it looks like I just need to find a decent TT to get things started.

Check out Vinyl Nirvana for a quality TT at a fair price.

When auditioning new TTs pay keen attention to pitch. From my experience and having read others reviews, it gets overlooked. Often, the impact of the music, detecting fine sonic nuances, quiet background outweigh pitch (or change in pitch) on initial listening (even lengthy listening sessions).

If you cannot detect pitch (or deviations from perfect pitch), then you have more TTs from which to choose.

Boy, you've let yourself open to opinions from everyone everywhere.
So, let me submit the voice of a music lover--rather then an equipment lover.
Contrary to what the print audio mags would have you believe, it IS possible to put together an excellent system for under $25,000. Well under.
First, do you have an audio technician close to you geographically? The vintage gear I recommend should be gone over regardless of what the seller says (It's mint!).
Now to the gear.
Get yourself a Japanese solid-state receiver made between '75 and '79. Look for ones 40 watts per channel and above. Pioneer, Yamaha, Marantz, Technics, Sansui. Remember, this is your first system. You can investigate tube amps later.
Next, turntables. The only function of a turntable is to turn at an accurate speed--silently. There are tons of vintage TTs out there and you'll be able to pick one up for under $200. Remember, this is your first system.
Next, tonearms. The only functions of a tonearm are to hold the cartridge perpendicular to the record, and allow it to move thru the record with as little friction as possible. You can get a new one for about $300.
Next, cartridges. Denon DC-110 ($140) Audio Technica AT-120 ($100) These are for new cartridges.
Last, speakers. Gone are the days when you could walk into your local hi-fi store and listen to a dozen different ones. And you don't know if you'll like the ones you just bought online. To start, I highly recommend the Sony SS-B3000 ($99 a pair at Best Buy).
This gear will get you into the game at a reasonable price. Afgter listening a few months, you'll be able to pick out the gear you want to upgrade.

You need a Gramophone, some 78's and a strong arm to crank :)