I've have two 1200s (mk2 and mk3), a AR-XA and a Music Hall 9.3 (with factory installed.
Honestly if you are just diving in, why don't you just grab a used 1200mk3 for around $500, or look for an old Thorens or Linn in the same ballpark. All will have great sound quality and will be easy to sell if you decide you want to go bigger.
Honestly if you are just diving in, why don't you just grab a used 1200mk3 for around $500, or look for an old Thorens or Linn in the same ballpark. All will have great sound quality and will be easy to sell if you decide you want to go bigger.