Budget tables


I need recommendations for budget tables-for about $300. What do you think of budget decks from Rega (P1-P3) vs. Music Hall (2.2-5.2) vs. Pro-Ject models vs. older Thorens? Are there any real differences or are they all pretty much the same. Any other budget decks I should consider?
tbromgard
Maybe a used Denon 47F would be best. Yes it has some auto features but I've heard it against the Rega's and it best them.
Luxman made some great tables with very good arms stock that certainly won't break the bank....they're relatively unknown in the US.
The older Japanese tables can be quite good - don't forget Techniques (Panasonic), Yamaha, etc.

From what I've seen, the entry models from Rega, MH and Pro-Ject cut lots of corners to keep costs down (motors taped or glued in place, MDF platters, etc). They are to be commended for resourceful engineering, but rather than spend your $300 on a new R1/2.2/Debut I'd look for something used higher up the line or one of the older units mentioned above.

Something to think about - typical inflation rates cause prices to double every 15 - 20 years. Your $300 budget today is like a $75 - $100 budget in 1980 - which wouldn't have got you much of a new table. On the other hand you probably could have picked up a decent used table for $100 in 1980.