could use some good advice on turntables..

If I was just getting into vinyl I would add up my budget and distribute funds for a good phono preamp, cartridge and table. Make sure your phono pre has enough gain to push the output of the cartridge with a little extra head room. If not no matter what table you get will sound weak and no fun to listen to. I'm a fan of NOS giant killer moving magnet cartridges when on a budget, you can pick them up for $200 to $400. I agree with Well Tempered there's one called the Classic, they have a model called The Record Player ( square motor is older version than round motor)and Simplex would be the cheapest in WT line. A Sota or VPI 19 with a Jelco 750 type tonearm are decent tables also.  A Black Cube or PS Audio GCPH phono pre, if you find a GCPH with Parts Connection mod pretty good bang for buck. I owned a BAT VK5i se long ago and think you could get away with a darker sounding table. I know there are others tables that are as good or better just take your time and make sure you have enough gain, good luck.