$1,500 is a ton to drop on a "dipping your toes" kind of venture, but I can say +1 for the Technics SL1200 MK2. I have a few decks (new, used, dd, belt) and the 1200 continues to be my go-to. Built like a tank and rock solid on delivering beautiful sound quality. Probably find one for about $500 with a decent cart. Or just buy a brand new MK7 for $1K.
Your amp's phono stage will handle both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, so you're good on that front for now.