I don't know what you consider "budget" TT's. I can tell you that I really enjoy my Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Esprit SB turntable. The price has recently dropped $50 and they are now selling for $549. The Esprit sports a DC motor, Speed control, a carbon arm, acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge. I've really enjoyed it. I did upgrade the phono interconnect cable to a cable from Audio Sensibility and felt it was worth the extra $100. I am thinking about upgrading the Ortofon with a new 2M Blue Stylus. Regardless of the urge to upgrade the cartridge, I'm pretty happy with it. Can't image you can get a much better package for $549.
budget tables
Can anyone comment on the current crop of 'budget t-tables'? Im curious about the You Turn Audio built in America table?
Also the 'Thorens' td-240, and Denon dp-300f. Im using a Pro-Ject debut lll now.
Thanx for your input,
John