You really are at a crossroads. I re-entered analog around 12 years ago now, thinking I could get by with an inexpensive Project 'table, Sumiko cart, and Dynavector phono stage. It wasn't long before dissatisfaction reared its ugly head. It wasn't until later on, that I learned my lack of knowledge regarding cartridge/arm setup was one of the main causes of my problems.
Whatever you get to start with, make sure your set up is good, before you decide what you have is junk, and start upgrading.
It took years for me learn how to get the most from my analog front end, but that's me. You may already have learned these things, I wound up learning out of necessity. Only you know what is acceptable to you, and what you are willing in invest in dollars, and becoming educated in what it takes for great vinyl sound reproduction.
Hopefully someone can give you concrete ideas on where to spend your hard-earned sheckels. You have to start somewhere (or not!), so stick your toes in the water. Try to visit some shops that have various levels of components to listen to, and get a sense of where to start.
Good luck!
Dan
Whatever you get to start with, make sure your set up is good, before you decide what you have is junk, and start upgrading.
It took years for me learn how to get the most from my analog front end, but that's me. You may already have learned these things, I wound up learning out of necessity. Only you know what is acceptable to you, and what you are willing in invest in dollars, and becoming educated in what it takes for great vinyl sound reproduction.
Hopefully someone can give you concrete ideas on where to spend your hard-earned sheckels. You have to start somewhere (or not!), so stick your toes in the water. Try to visit some shops that have various levels of components to listen to, and get a sense of where to start.
Good luck!
Dan