If I had to start over I would go all digital and streaming. The odd CD can be transferred to online storage (or a hard drive if you must).
If you really want to go vinyl, why not get something reasonable like a Rega P-8 or a Technics SL1200 GR. You can have enormous fun with these, change out cartridges, fiddle with actual media, read the covers and inserts, compete with hipsters chasing down rare records, and show off to friends. Anything more expensive will have a limited return on investment in terms of sound quality. Sort of like buying a Rolex (a cheap Timex keeps better time).
Of course, if you're loaded go where your heart leads you, but remember those expensive vinyl rigs are tedious and can be frustrating – the fastest way to audio nervosa!
Admitting my error…
Admitting my error of some years ago, when downsizing residences I sold my 1500 lps (my father’s, uncle’s and my collection :) because, of course nearly everything is available digitally, I am considering getting back into vinyl. Kit-wise I’m looking at Dr. Feikert Venti/J Sikora Initial TT level - full kit approx $15k including phonostage.
The Joseph Audio/Doshi/Aurender/J Sikora room at AXPONA simply blew me away. Switching between amazing digital and uber-rich and detailed analog, I kept returning to the room like the sweets table at a Bar Mitzvah. I understand that at $250K the rig was 2x’s mine (Pathos Heritage/Tannoy Kensignton/Innuous MK3/Phoenix USB/NET/Chord HSM/DAVE w/ SJ DC4 ARC6 lpsu. But still the character of the vinyl sound was utterly entrancing.
My question: If I go this route, I’d like to "restock" my collection to some extent by purchasing a reasonably sized vinyl lot, then add selectively over time. Any recommendations as to lot purchasing? ("Don’t do it!" is an acceptable recommendation.)
TIA
