If you really want to learn about vinyl and all the skills that go along with optimizing turntable performance, I'd recommend a Technics SL1200 or any of its variants.
Reasons...
1) Relatively inexpensive entry to vinyl.
2) Easy set up and adjustability...removable headshell (easy to swap and compare different cartridges), VTA on the fly (learn the effects of Vertical Tracking Angle changes), easy VTF, easy leveling, etc.
3) Certainly not "starting at the bottom", especially when you consider the upgrade path that exists (e.g., KAB).
4) Plays good music! Dead-on speed stability.
5) Strong resale value when you do decide to move up the equipment ladder.
6) Built like a brick &*#@house!
Also - spend some time reading the archives of the vinyl section of the Audio Asylum and Audiogon websites. Learn how to clean and care for LPs.
Good luck - and above all - enjoy the music!
Reasons...
1) Relatively inexpensive entry to vinyl.
2) Easy set up and adjustability...removable headshell (easy to swap and compare different cartridges), VTA on the fly (learn the effects of Vertical Tracking Angle changes), easy VTF, easy leveling, etc.
3) Certainly not "starting at the bottom", especially when you consider the upgrade path that exists (e.g., KAB).
4) Plays good music! Dead-on speed stability.
5) Strong resale value when you do decide to move up the equipment ladder.
6) Built like a brick &*#@house!
Also - spend some time reading the archives of the vinyl section of the Audio Asylum and Audiogon websites. Learn how to clean and care for LPs.
Good luck - and above all - enjoy the music!