New TT for ~$1500

Vlad's list of ads on Canadian site. They pay no fee there, so can sell for less or take offers less than their listings on eBay.

https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/userads.php?user_id=10089

micro seiki direct drive, micro seiki arm, nice wood plinth

https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/649614028-micro-seiki-md-700-professional-direct-drive-turntable/

from Vlad, a very nice Russian in Canada. I bought my JVC Dual Arm TT81 in large plinth from him. Excellently packaged, very good communication,

price is Canadian, $850 CAD = $603. I guess he would accept an offer for a bit less

Denon DP-80 is absolutely stunning Direct Drive, i’m so happy that i bought unused sample in mint condition, i’ve been reading audiogon contributors for a long time and finally decided to buy one for my collection, i prefer Denon base just for one tonearm. It’s compact and good looking, but i already have different turntables. That Denon DA-401 tonearm is very nice for high compliance carts.  

here is a nice vintage denon flyer

A Japanese classics, a must have in my opinion.
It’s crazy how low is the price for those DP-80 sometimes.

Last week i finally assembled another turntable for a friend, he prepared it for his daughter as a present, very nice. Technics SP-20 in SH10B3 with custom made armboard. 

that denon with the wide removable arm board has this base which is similar to the JVC deck, wonderful peak of the era designs

http://yahoo.aleado.com/lot?auctionID=v568017645

chackster just said nice things about the DP-80 spinner

still around to make an offer.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-DENON-DP-80-DK-110-DA-307-Direct-Drive-Turntable-ELAC-STS-255/133188373455?hash=item1f02a54bcf:g:0ZEAAOSwP~Fdkt9j

I just read the description completely, it is a 'rough' translation, but very informative if you re-read it. there is some nice technology in that arm as well. magnetic anti-skate, instant off/on, micrometer tracking adjustment, damped arm ...

the 350mm arm length is 'total' arm length, not effective length.

curiously, the notes reference 'fit CL-P1D' which is a similar JVC deck.

"Fit cabinet DK-300/2300/110

cabinet CL-P1D"

maybe someone understands this??

https://www.google.com/search?q=cabinet+CL-P1D&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS881US881&sxsrf=ALeKk03he4GVLvnWT_CRAk-zhzOiGsq8DA:1589380155953&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=E_uzhf5y2uqF5M%253A%252CIf5fnzu5F1BTiM%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kQSRW57QhquplQk7VlWcop_YPfwMA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj96-68hrHpAhV1knIEHX4jDycQ9QEwAXoECAgQDw#imgrc=E_uzhf5y2uqF5M:

For around $1,000 right now,  The Pro-Ject Classic SB with Wooden Chassis and Ortofon Quintet Red MC Cartridge package from Audio Advisor that includes Pro-Ject’s Push-Button Electronic Speed Control, the Clamp-It $99 Record Clamp, and the Leather-It $59 Upgrade Turntable Mat has got to be the deal of the week. A Rega P3 is always a good choice, but Adding $345 to the base P3, and the other goodies, and you are way over the $1199 ask for the Project.  If you want to economize even more, the standard Pro-Ject Classic Turntable with an Ortofon 2M Silver Cartridge (I think it's a 2M Red wound with fewer turns of silver-plated  wire, instead of copper) for $899 is likewise a great value.  

For those who think I'm a shill for Pro-ject, AA also has Rega P8s for $1999 plus cart.  That is a jawdropping price on a spectacular table. I'd also look at the  EAT B# Turntable with the Ortofon 2M Blue package, and the Marantz TT 15S1 Turntable with ClearAudio Virtuoso MM Cartridge ( It's actually a ClearAudio table in Marantz cosmetics)

Dont buy a direct drive table unless you have at least $ 10,000 for the deck only.

and if you have $10k buy Technics SP10R (just the drive)

then read a little bit about the drive and buy SL1200G with the same motor for $3999 (for compete turntable with tonearm). 

still expensive? Look for SL1200GR for $1700 that is not far from "G"

Actually you don't have to spend $10k just for a reference Direct Drive even considering only NEW models. 

Denon DP-80 drive is $1500 and it's fantastic for the money, but it's from the 70's, anyway MINT condition units still available. This turntable will put in the dust all those new overpriced belt drive up to $10 000  

Dont buy a direct drive table unless you have at least $ 10,000 for the deck only. Old/cheap direct drive tables are terrible IMO. 

If you had the $, the entry level Kuzma arm and table are unbeatable for the price.

I hope with Chakster’s, blessing what about the PolyTable?
Looks like a solid option from someone that cannot compete in resources but with a trajectory in table design like no other designer or company.
http://hifigem.com/polytable.html

I've read this post with a smile on my face and decided I really must throw my 2 cents in even though it only serves to reinforce what has been said several times before.  Years back I had a Technics 1200 MK 2 (purchased new) which I played with a several mid/high cartridges. The balance of my system was ultra high end so I decided that the analog part needed upgrading. I replaced the MK2 with an Oracle Delphi 5 with an SME 2 arm equipped with a Lyra Argo i cartridge. I was certainly proud of how the Oracle looked vs the Technics. . My mind also told me it sounded much better..well, after spending about 8 grand on my setup it should, right? .....Then a real disaster struck and my entire setup was stolen. 
After replacing my electronics and speakers with equivalents I had only enough cash to purchase a gently used Technics 1200 MK5 and a new Nagaoka MP200. And ya know what, most of my vinyl collection sounds equally as good and some of the lesser quality pressings even sound a bit better. The used MK5 and the new MP200 cost me $1100. It's not that difficult to live with the Technics pedestrian looks after all. 

Well Tempered Simplex. I would choose it over any turntable mentioned here. Great sound, great looking. Cost me $3.5k to find something that was clearly better.

My .02

I've come as a long time user of JVC TT's. Namely the famed QL-Y7, QL-Y5, QL-Y55, etc. Great turntables all around. I don't know Techniques product. But I do know a little something about direct drive. I've been using direct drive TT's since the late 60's. 

That said - We're talking $1500, or less, including a cartridge. That settles it. The Marantz TT-15S1 kind of stands on it's own. The cartridge is what an $800 cartridge? I mean come on! And I"ve seen this Marantz sell used for less than $800. 

Oh, and I own one!

Run, don't walk...buy the Marantz...and come back here to thank those of us who suggested the Marantz. All the best!

Thanks for informing me Chackster. I had the Platinum, Sonata, and now the Master; there was a significant move up with each change, I think they're a good buy.

Chakster, I noticed you never recommend "Grado"; that’s my favorite cartridge, and I’ve tried many.

@orpheus10
That’s not true, maybe you missed my recommendations for Grado, find my grado between Pioneer PC-1000 mkII and Grace LEVEL II BR/MR. This is Joseph Grado Signature XTZ and this is what i have right now on my Denon DA-401 tonearm. This is the best Grado cartridge i ever tried, but i must say i did not try all Grados. Prior to this i’ve been using a lot (and still have them) a $150 Grado DJ200 which is based on cheap Grado Black, those are not for the main system.

Grado Signature XTZ is high-end MI cartridge from the 80’s, i love it!
XTZ styli are available from Grado

As an owner of the recommended Marantz TT15, I would like to chime in.  It is a beautiful table and it does sound good.  I got it new a couple of years ago for $1000, which was a steal at the time.  That said, I am going to be replacing it with a direct drive.  Reasons:

- The belt drive. I hate changing the belt for speeds.  Especially on this table.  The belt is located near the bottom and can come off.
- The motor. It just sits in a hole in the plinth.  I get it, isolation.  However, when you turn it on, the motor moves.  It is just a poor design, IMHO.
- The cartridge.  As mentioned above, the overhang is significant and I know people with this table that have broken it off more than once.  I am SUPER careful and have not had any issues, fortunately.
- Also as mentioned above, it does have an additional ground wire and no dustcover.  I am not a fan of a giant acrylic box sitting over my tt(for another $200.)

I have a vintage Kenwood KD-500 that I am servicing.  It is a great looking table with a nice tonearm,  a dustcover and has a Grado gold on it. It is made of a composite that Kenwood designed that looks like marble and is quite heavy.  I am going to shoot it out with the Marantz when I am done and if I find it close, the Marantz will be sold.

Chakster, I noticed you never recommend "Grado";  that's my favorite cartridge, and I've tried many.

I believe a cartridge is like choosing a girl friend; this is the one for me, but not for everybody else.

Two directions here. Get an old Denon DD table. Spend ~$400. This will give you a taste of DD. And if you sell it later you won't lose hardly a dime. I recommend spending a bit more on the cartridge.  The Soundsmith Otello is a steal at $399. Some of the new ATs are very fine cartridges. 
The second path is the new Schiit Sol. It comes with a cartridge installed. I believe one choice is the ATVM95E. The first upgrade I would make would be to pop on a new Shibata or Microline stylus. Take like 30 seconds. This will let you compare them easily. You also have 15 days to try the Schiit with a small restocking fee if a no go. 
Let us know what route you take, and your thoughts.

Any closer to a decision?

You mentioned REGA, I just returned to analogue after a long break .I tested the water with a low budget  manual table and was quite surprised for what I GOT for a very modest sum.And then took the big jump (INCURABLE AUDIOPHILIA) one with these new double /triple plinths  and the final  one with a suspended chassis  ... and I am still wondering what  justifies the wide price difference  between all these choices. An quasi frameless table for 6,000 while a similar idea  almost no frame around a rigid cast bar  for less than 800.I would be interested to  throw some money out of the window  on the latter to really compare it with the expensive sister because these two are visibly done along the same design direction (MINIMAL FRAME- NO PLINTH). Even a very special bearing  would not seem enough .It is time we take real look at these reviewers claims who justify any  price.The best amp I ever heard, the best turntable ever made  until the next issue and so on. JUST be careful  we should  try to listen at different items in a system we familiar with music we love and familiar with before we follow the prophets, GOOD LUCK

You mentioned REGA, I just returned to analogue after a long break .I tested the water with a low budget  manual table and was quite surprised for what I GOT for a very modest sum.And then took the big jump (INCURABLE AUDIOPHILIA) one with these new double /triple plinths  and the final  one with a suspended chassis  ... and I am still wondering what  justifies the wide price difference  between all these choices. An quasi frameless table for 6,000 while a similar idea  almost no frame around a rigid cast bar  for less than 800.I would be interested to  throw some money out of the window  on the latter to really compare it with the expensive sister because these two are visibly done along the same design direction (MINIMAL FRAME- NO SPLINT). Even a very special bearing  would not seem enough .It is time we take real look at these reviewers claims who justify any  price.The best amp I ever heard, the best turntable ever made  until the next issue and so on. JUST be careful  we should  try to listen at different items in a system we familiar with music we love and familiar with before we follow the prophets, GOOD LUCK

You can read fremer’s review on Technics. Or watch this and compare :))

nothing wrong with a well designed 1500-2000 buck belt driven turntable! I have owned several in this price range and they all sounded great.

"Sounded great" for you, but you can’t even adjust VTA on those cheap tonearms.

Will you swap your nice Tannoy for Wireless speakers ? @audioguy85
Same about Technics and overpriced (entry level) belt drive toys

Tell that to Michael Fremer, his "belt drive" turntable costs as much as a luxury car....I disagree, there is nothing wrong with a well designed 1500-2000 buck belt driven turntable! I have owned several in this price range and they all sounded great.

@crustycoot

Don’t know enough to suggest a cartridge, but options abound. I use a vintage Grace F9 Ruby with great pleasure.

This is very nice, but the stylus on original Ruby (RS9R) is elliptical.
There are better profiles from Grace for F9, also profiles from FR14 (F14) are compatible with F9. Grace own Advanced Luminal Trace profile (RS14AL clear color) or those blue color profiles with "F" on them with LineContact type of the diamond.

@audite84

Try the Hana EL. It is the new Denon 103 and considered to be better. Talking of vintage Technics cartridge, I bought a used EPC-205C MK3 with original stylus (still in good condition) a couple of years ago. This cartridge is very neutral sounding, just what a cartridge is supposed to, but still sounds analog and not flat sounding as my V15 IV-MR. I’ve read the EPC-100C is better but I haven’t heard it.

Denon is not better, it has conical stylus tip and low compliance, a very old design for super heavy tonearms.
Also don't forget about SUT or MC phono stage that you will have to add to the price. 

An MC cartridge for beginner is the worst as re-tip cost a lot and cartridge must be shipped back to the manufacturer for a long time (or to re-tipper).

I’ve mentioned some of the best Technics MM cartridges just to remind to others that Matsushita invented not only amazing DD turntables, but also made great cartridges with extremely low moving mass and super wide frequency response. Unfortunately the rubber material in cartridge suspension was a bad choice, they are all suffering from this problem in 30-40 years (softened suspension, cartridge almost laying down on the record surface). Jico S.A.S. is replacement for 205 series, but not for 100 series :( Another "problem" is elliptical stylus, they could use advanced profile, but they didn’t :( What was really great is Boron Pipe Cantilever.

One of the reasons why some other vintage cartridges are better is different stylus profile (stereohedron, micro ridge, line contact, micro line etc) and proper suspension.

Grace even made Boron Pipe cantilever, but with Micro Ridge stylus, i like Grace LEVEL II better. 

For beginner: user replaceable stylus is a must have, for this reason MM or MI only (not MC). 

I have the GR. For me it looks more upscale in real life than in pics for some reason. If feels quality as well, not flimsy or cheap at all, so if the looks thing is holding you back, try at least to see it in person. It’s A LOT of turntable for the money. 

OP, 

Try the Hana EL. It is the new Denon 103 and considered to be better. Talking of vintage Technics cartridge, I bought a used EPC-205C MK3 with original stylus (still in good condition) a couple of years ago. This cartridge is very neutral sounding, just what a cartridge is supposed to, but still sounds analog and not flat sounding as my V15 IV-MR. I've read the EPC-100C is better but I haven't heard it. 

Audio Tecnica LP7. Im not crazy. Great Turntable $800.00 and buy some records. 

IMHO The Rega P3 is the table in the $1000 range, Although I would immediately throw a Dynavector 10X5 on it and some groove tracer upgrades...like the platter and sub platter. Also a good solid platform for more isolation help really make the P3 shine!

www.groovetracer.com/subplatter_groovetracer.htm
www.musicdirect.com/phono-cartridges/Dynavector-10x5-Mk2-MC-Phono-Cartridge?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhK-n76...

Put your money into a great cartridge that mates perfectly with the Rega RB303 tone arm. This combo will provide huge fun factor!

The P6 would be great with the above mentioned upgrades as well.
Matt

To keep things less complicated, consider the Technics 1500GR with a Nagaoka MP110/150/200. Obviously, the better the cartridge, the better the sound. These are very musical. Go for it.

I agree, Direct Drive.

Have you considered buying a vintage deck and spinner, use it’s arm, upgrade cartridge? upgrade to a better tonearm in the future?

this one is unusual, deck is wider than normal, with wide removable armboard that allows you to easily change the arm, including up to 350mm long arm. it looks nice, bet the wifey would like it if you do.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-DENON-DP-80-DK-110-DA-307-Direct-Drive-Turntable-ELAC-STS-255/133188373455?hash=item1f02a54bcf:g:0ZEAAOSwP~Fdkt9j

My JVC, has similar adjustable feet, but, no ’skirt’ like this Denon does. Denon, you get the adjustability to level the deck, but with a more finished look, I may make a skirt for mine.

I would be tempted to make an offer and buy the 2 year warranty.

the cartridge is crap, plan on a new one.

I don't know about Denon's (I just researched and got a very similar JVC TT81), this seller imply's that spinner is desirable

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Denon-DP-80-Direct-Drive-Turntable/254289075572?hash=item3b34cf5d74:g:lpgAAOSwzDBbB8~N

Matsushita Electric Industrial , now Panasonic, has more than 100 years of history. Technics is a part of Matsushita. It was and still is a huge company. This is the real deal.

Long time ago people raved about Technics MM cartridges like this one, this model still goes for over $1k

I’m currently putting together technics system for a friend with EPA-100 tonearm and SP-20 direct drive in obsidian sh10B3 plinth. This is 100% vintage system. Here is my ex SP-10 mkII with EPA -100 and same cartridge.

Here is a long thread about Technics NEW turntables.

MM cartridges with mid compliance is what you need for Technics tonearms if you will ever buy Technics SL1200GR (or related Technics DD). Without breaking the bank this is one of the best under $450 (compliance 15cu at 10Hz, stylus type is Stereohedron and magnet is Samarium Cobalt, can be used for more than 1000 hours, this is LineContact type of the stylus). Find NOS and be happy. Expert Stylus Co in UK specialized in Pickering/Stanton service. NOS styli still available for this model if you’re lucky. Ask if you need help.

Interesting takes everyone. You guys are starting to make me look more seriously at a Technics. Either they have the best, most subversive marketing department ever (better than even MoFi) or Technics is the real deal. I lean toward the latter.

I’ve also added the Marantz and VPI HW-19 to my list for consideration. I am sure any of these three would be a HUGE step up for me sonically.
Anyone have reasonable (<$500) cartridge recs for the Technics or VPI tables? I’d get the Marantz with the Virtuoso as it is such a screaming deal.

Techics SP12 in the rubber plinth they made for it... I was totally disappointed in the flat, mechanical sound ...

Not sure why you mentioned this very old (SP12) entry level cheap model of Technics here ? This is probably a $100 turntable.

And what is a rubber plinth ?
Even in the 70’s their top model plinth was Obsidian, not rubber.

The best vintage technics is SP-10 mkII and SP-10 mk III.

BUT We’re talking about brand NEW Technics with completely different next generation modern DD motors, they are the best DD motors available today. You will find more about Technics reference class DD motor here.

The affordable version is SL1200GR for $1700 or SL1200G for $4000

My comments are based on my ownership of the Clearaudio Emotion, which by all accounts is basically the same as the Marantz TT-15S1 with a different plinth and feet.  Some things to consider.  There's no dust cover.  That may or may not be an issue.  There are aftermarket ones, but they are basically a big acrylic box and will add another $200 - $300 to the cost.  The Virtuoso cartridge is very good for a MM.  Clearaudio's cantilevers stick way out in front of the cartridge body and are easy to snap off (ask me how I know).  The motor on my Emotion had a tendency to wobble around and was hard to position so that it didn't touch the plinth.  There is a second (optional) ground wire on the bottom of the platter, that is kind of a PIA to get connected and keep in place.  I ended up taping mine to the bottom of the platter to keep it from coming loose.  A replacement belt is $50.  The anti-skate control is a screw on the back of the tonearm assembly and a little fiddly.  These come up on the used market quite often and you can typically find them at a little over 50% of retail.  Not trying to talk you out of it, but some things to consider.  It's a nice table and has a good tonearm for the price and is attractive.

At one point in my journey I went from a Linn LP12 w/ Keith Monks TA and Sonus Blue label to a Techics SP12 in the rubber plinth they made for it, paired with Audio Technica's best arm and cartridge (Signet TK9MLa or something).  I was totally disappointed in the flat, mechanical sound, and within a year had a SOTA Sapphire w/ Sumiko FT3 arm and Dynavector Ruby Karat...aahhh that's more like it!  Never DD again.  I next movet to a Well Tempered TT/TA and that's what I still have...30+ years later, with no regrets.  There is this:  https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649611502-well-tempered-lab-amadeus-gta-dps-herbies-mat/
This is no doubt better than what I have, and it's price, while above your stated budget, seems worth the stretch for what could well prove to be your last turntable buy...think of it...no further "upgrading"!
Don't know enough to suggest a cartridge, but options abound.  I use a vintage Grace F9 Ruby with great pleasure.

Not sure what a poster meant by you will "lose" on a belt drive turntable at the $1500 price point...if I were you I would go for either the pro-ject x2 or move up to the new classic Evo @ $1599.

You will lose because those belt drive are inferior turntables and inferior technology in comparison to the brand new Technics SL1200 mk7 or especially the GR Direct Drive models with much better tonearm with VTA on the fly with removable headshell.

Also this is SPEED STABLE turntables, belt drive are not.

Those small companies like Pro-Ject or Rega simply can’t compete with Japanese GIANT like Matsushita, the reason Technics price is not twice as much is because they are making millions of units.

Even NEUMANN cutting lathe comes with Technics Direct Drive motor SP-02
THIS IS HOW OUR RECORDS ARE MADE, this is real deal, not mass market toys. 
Look at the catalog posted by jpjones

So we’re comparing apples to oranges here.

Those belt drive might be OK for $500, but for $1500 is a joke!

Technics SL1200GR for $1700 NEW is one of the best new DD available on the market and it’s a champion in this price for sure. Tonearm is very nice for the money.

Another vote here for the Marantz TT15S1. I bought a MoFi Ultradeck first and felt it was overrated and overpriced. Anti-skate was abysmal. Didn’t really get all the hype over the Delrin platter. But the MoFi promotion department sure can write up a compelling sales pitch... Exchanged for the Marantz and could not be happier. Incredible cartridge, great tone arm. For the price, it’s a no brainer. Twice the table of the UltraDeck for $1000 less.

Marantz TT-15s2. Comes with Clearaudio Virtuoso cartridge. A STEAL at $1500.

Not sure what a poster meant by you will "lose" on a belt drive turntable at the $1500 price point...if I were you I would go for either the pro-ject x2 or move up to the new classic Evo @ $1599. I own the classic sb and replaced the bluepoint no 2 with the Hana el and it's the best turntable I've owned...to each his own, belt drive, direct drive...I personally have to be happy with the way something looks as well as performs, and the classic sb or evo have it all over the technics, unless you like the DJ look, i don't. 

Ciao, se sei interessato, oltre alla già citata Rega, Project, VPI ecc., Se ne hai l'opportunità, ascolta la ditta Funk Little Super Deck, costruzione inglese con tecniche molto originali trovate. Lo posseggo da un anno con una nagaoka mp head 500 e suona molto bene con il suo braccio FS5. L'ho trovato nella demo ex olandese per $ 1500. Vivo in Italia
Buona ricerca e buona fortuna
DavidHello, if you are interested, in addition to the aforementioned Rega, Project, VPI etc .., if you have the opportunity, listen to the Funk firm Little Super Deck, English construction with very original techniques found.I have owned it for a year with a nagaoka mp head 500 and sounds very good with his FS5 arm.I found it in the Netherlands ex demo for $ 1500.I live in Italy
Good research and good luck
David

I initially didn’t want a Technics either. I had already owned a 1200MK2 for many years and with a budget of 3k was looking at upper end Projects, Sotas and Music Halls...something new and different. I’m an industrial designer and I liked the aesthetics of these brands much better. I also looked at the Kuzma Stabi.

Take a close look at the Project and Music Hall turntables. Oftentimes they share the same tonearms. A lot of companies will share parts when they don’t have the expertise to pull the whole thing off or can’t spend the necessary money on R&D.

In the end I decided to spend a little extra and get the 1200G. It’s an amazing TT. About the aesthetics: It’s just too familiar. But when you pick up the tone arm or need to make adjustments, you really do appreciate the expertise that this company has when compared to almost every other TT manufacturer. The gimbal, by itself, is extremely precise.

I know you don’t like the look of a Technics. But put any of those TTs right in front of you so you can see them up close and feel how they work and you will see that the Technics is a better product...and that’s what won me back.

At your price point, it is on another level. I vote for the GR, or MK7.I would vote for a NOS MK2 over a lot of the other brands.

I have a VPI HW-19 MKIII with Jelco TS-550S and Hana EL. I'm quite happy with the sound, and I plan to get the Hana SL in the future for even better detail and tracking. The HW-19 is well-built too.

I also have a Technics SL-150MK2 with SME Series III and Shure V15 Type IV-MR. Sound is on the clinical side, but could be due to the SME III and V15 IV combo's reputation of CD-like sound, i.e. very accurate. 

You won't go wrong with the Technics direct drive or the HW-19. It all boils down to your preference. 

The Schitt Sol looks like a winner to me.
You could try it with a Puffin for $1300 total. Choice of 2 carts.

Check out SOTA. The Moonbeam is around $1200 and the Comet is around $1700. There is a model in between I just don't remember the name of it. They also trade in (buyback) their old models. They also repair their own turntables.

Check Technics Sl 1500C out. Silver or black. It does NOT look like 1200GR. Decent starter cartridge is included.

Audio-Technica  LP7

You can't go wrong with all its features.
Great Phono built in + out if you have a better phono
Great Cartridge.
Do a search for its other specs.

Don't now about pricing in your part of the world.

Marantz TT15S1 would be my vote as well. Sweet deal considering the value of its parts and it’s made by clear audio.

If I were spending $1,500 on a new table, Rega and Project wouldn’t even make the bottom of that list! WAY overpriced for what you don’t get! Technics wouldn’t make the bottom of that list, either! Japanese glam table.

Marantz TT15S1. Comes with a $1000 cartridge, a badass tonearm, and a table built by clearaudio. It’s the best deal in turntables. Yeah it’s a few years old but, you get a sweet setup and it’s good looking too. 

It’s your coins to spend but you didn’t get a huge amount of support with your Rega and Project suggestions.  I would listen to our Russian buddy as he is a pretty knowledgeable vinyl source.  The Technics tables that were suggested are wonderful tables....I have had the 1200G model and also several Rega Tables and there is no comparison between the 2 of  them.  The Technics tables are much better quality hands down.

I understand you want "new" and you have certain aesthetic restrictions, too. Allowing for that, I also endorse a used VPI HW-19. I have a Mk 2 with a Mørch UP-4 tonearm and I’m pretty happy with that combination and the turntable can be easily upgraded. Parts are readily available, too. I paid $500 for the turntable and it was in superb condition (from a local Audiogoner!)