You are totally on the right track if you buy the Rega P3, buy a high output dynavector cartridge, which i think is $450, you need a spacer ring for the collar which is so simple I can do it, and you will beat anything listed above. Agreed with above, get a Rega Brio with built in phono, and whatever speakers you have or want, and you'll have the basics of something that will play music much better than anything in the price range...your ears and wallet will be thrilled! and I bet you'll start buying a lot more vinyl! It's been a standard through the ages and there's a reason why.
What is a good spartan turntable set up?
I am starting from scratch now and just want to play my records! I'm interested in an entry level but good quality set up. I prefer something bookshelf size. It seems most amps accommodate CD/tape/etc, and small standalone phono preamps that have been catching my eye can't connect directly to speakers. I would very much appreciate recommendations for the most spartan way of connecting a turntable to speakers. Also, recommendations for turntable and speakers would be greatly appreciated as well. Once I figure it out, I will be purchasing from the audiogon listings, so let me know if you have something that would work for me. Thank you in advance!