I basically went though the same thing to get back into Vinyl. I went with the Rega 6 and their MC, as it avoided all the setup issues and matching, etc. It was high enough 'high-end' to satisfy a jump back into vinyl, without going over board.
But it was a tough choice between that and Clearaudio and Music Hall.
It turns out I'm glad I didn't go up to the next level ($7-10K in my opinion) as I like (repeat I like) my digital setup, sound and convenience much more then spinning records again.
Help me decide on first turntable purchase
This is my first turntable purchase. Last time I had a TT was when I was teenager in the 80's. I don't have much vinyl at all so I have to buy records as well. Budget is $3000, really don't want to go over that. I need a phono stage as well. My system is Sonus Faber Sonetto VIII, PrimaLuna EVO 400 integrated. My digital is a Innuos Zenith mkIII into a Chord Qutest. My initial thoughts on a couple tables were the Mofi Ultradeck, Music Hall 7.3 and Rega Planar 6. I am sorry but I just don't like the look of the Technics stuff. I am not a big fan of the Rega looks either but I know it gets great reviews. I was considering a Clear Audio Concept until I joined the Facebook owners group and hear about all the motor speed problems. Initial phone Pre I was looking at were the Mofi and KC Vibe. The Ultradeck seems very solid and seems to get great reviews.
Thank you for your thoughts.
Thank you for your thoughts.