Vinyl***What If***

You can try to cure masochism, though. Odds are not good, but you can try.

The reason I love vinyl (apart from the artwork, feel, smell, history of previous owners, used finds) is because in almost every case, my original vinyl copy sounds far better than the CD or Tidal hi-fi. My collection is mostly older originals. But even newer vinyl like First Aid Kit and Aldous Harding sounds better on vinyl.

I would agree with the "buy an entry level Project or Rega and have some fun!" take...If you are a music person and can stretch to $500-$1,000 for a TT/cartridge, you may enjoy the analog experience. If you are fully committed to digital, great. If you have $1,000 to spend and like to hit garage sales/thrift store/used record stores the vinyl part of this endeavor can be real fun and help connect you to the music on an even deeper level than digital. TRY IT! and ignore the folks who imply spending $1,500 + is needed to get the vinyl effect. 

I have two nieces who wanted to try records, and both (independently) bought the U-Turn turntable.  They are both very happy with their choice.  As they are both just out of school and have limited means it was a good financial choice. I also sent them each a vintage amp to get started.  Don’t worry about the naysayers; start low on your budget, and if you catch the fever you just keep upgrading. It’s all about the music. 

Also, hit the flea markets and garage sales.  Great surprises await, and you get to meet some fellow music lovers.