Under $500 is not worth it, closer to $1K to start in my opinion. I'd suggest one of the Rega models also, multiple price ranges, they can come complete with a decent cartridge, so no fiddling with set up. Their whole line gets great reviews. Easy to resell if you get into serious record playing/collecting, it's also a good match for your current system or even if you upgrade a bit.
I would agree that most of the Technics tables are a good choice also. I have owned them in the past. I own a small record collection (100 new and used) and own a Rega P6 with their installed cartridge.
I disagree with those discouraging you. True, you may not use it much, I use my table maybe 2-3 times a week, but enjoy spinning and buying albums none-the-less.