Turntable advise for an analog novice

Thanks all for the insightful feedback.

As far as the rest of my rig is concerned, its decent but frugal:

MF X-A1 Integrated amp.
MF Tube Buffer.
Parasound Zphono stage.
AMC b8 CD player.
B&W 603 speakers

I really want to get better sound out of my LPs so that's why I've been focusing on the TT. I considered the Mitchel TechnoWeight and Incognito tonearm wiring upgrades. I'm not afraid to tinker (would probably be fun) but my goal is to noticeably improve my listening experience so I'm a little worried about experimenting given my current level of knowledge.

The new TTs I've seen in my price range are:
- VPI Scout - (a bit more than I wanted to spend)
- ClearAudio Emotion
- MH MMF 7.1
- Origin Live Aurora
- Project RM 5

I'll take a look at the LP-12 as well. Any thoughts on the Technics 1200?

I would definitly prefer to get something used and I've been scanning the site for a good deal but I'm trying to make an informed decision and there seems to be a great deal to consider.

Like they say, "the journey is half the fun..."

Thanks again

You might add Rega and Funk Firm to your short list. The Technics is excellent value and very appealing from some standpoints but not the be all and end all that some would have you believe. My own bias would be to shoot higher if you can, but by all means look into it to see how it strikes you.

dealer disclosure.

I disagree with Williwanka. If I had the worst system in the world, amy upgrade would be noticeable. The final sound out of the speakers is the sum total of the whole system.

Any of the above are probably good choices. IMO, it doesn't matter which you choose because you won't stay with the first table for long before you start upgrading either the entire table, or pieces here and there.

IMO, the KAB Technics SL12XX with one or two of the modifications will provide you with the longest lasting back-to-vinyl experience before you feel the need to spend more money. The KAB Technics also offers many very reasonably priced performance upgrades that can be added as time moves on (power supply, tonearm wiring, isolation...etc).

You also have the option of adding a Rega RB250 arm at some point if you are so inclined.

Andarilu - One last thought....

Having reasearched some of the RB250 upgrades that are available (e.g. rewire + Techno weight may cost around $600 on your existing RB250), I would opt for something like the Michell re-engineered RB250 which comes with...
- Silver wire + better interconnect & plugs
- Upgraded bearings
- vibration deadening foam
- Techno weight
- VTA Adjuster

If you order from the UK you can get it for around $700+duty

I ordered my Michell Techno-weight from Trichord Research - who were very responsive, but it took around 2 weeks to clear Canadian customs

Regards...