Where to start? New to Analog


Can someone recommend a decent introductory (used or new) phonostage and an older used turntable or something introductory level.

I could probably sneak my parents old one away ;) but I doubt it is up to snuff.

I was thinking a QED Discsaver from UHF Mag for around $150 CDN would be a good start. Since my NADC350 Integrated lacks a phono stage.

Any brand recommendations or advice on where to start for an older turntable?

I'm a University student, small budget, basically looking to experiment for as little as possible till I can leap to something worthwhile.

All thoughts recommendations, articles or pages that can provide me some more detailed background information from a beginner's prospective would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance
vaystrem
Ya I thought it was overpriced as I could get into an entry level Project for around $350cdn or so and a basic music hall for around the same.

The family turntable is a "BSR Macdonald" atleast that's all my sister, in another city or I would go look, can find on it to identify it. Anyone familiar with this product?
This BSR is really socks. The Dual should be much cheaper. Listen to the Thorens hobbyists. They know about TT's.

Or look for a nice Dual 505 MkII. Or a Technics 1700 or 1200 or a Technics tangential like SL- J1 This is a later product.
The BSR is a bit of a dog- no offense intended. You can get a good used Technics 1200 and cartridge for around $150 to $200, but be sure a DJ didn't get his hands on it first. Some of the Thorens are great, but be careful of which model as some of them have arms that are lacking.

Regards
Jim
Thanks for the advice all - Jimbo3 I'm not offended just glad that I know now :) I'll keep looking around town thanks :)