Where to start? New to Analog

Thanks for the advice all - Jimbo3 I'm not offended just glad that I know now :) I'll keep looking around town thanks :)

Vaystrem:

There have always been tons of decent vintage TT's on Ebay offered by Candian sellers. I assume that many of these were acquired (for resale) from the local thrifts.

If you are not in a hurry try cruising the local thrifts in the event that you get lucky.

As far as phono preamps go there is a vintage (70's) Radio Shack/Realistic MM preamp (42-2101) that is worth seeking out (they typically sell for $5-$20 on Ebay). Problem is finding one in decent operating condition (good caps w/o hum). When in good shape it easily matches the sound quality of current/popular $100-$150 phono preamps when paired with a high output MM cartridge.

There was also a 42-2101a version, but I am not familar with it (it may or may not be the same).

A local phile said that the unit's all discrete design reminded him of Jon Curl's early work (Curl is a well known circuit designer).

Anyway, this is the route I would take if on a meager budget (a little patience/diligence can sometimes offer the best bang for the buck).

i've been upgrading selling these realistic 42-2101 42-2101a and 42-2109 phono preamplifiers with great success, people really like them, they really come alive after a complete refurbishment!  they are goods stock but after the updates they have been blowing away many many high dollars phono preamps.

Project Debut III and Schiit Mani. I bet they would make you happy for quite some time and wouldn’t break the bank.

Could also get a U-Turn Orbit with built in phono stage starting around $250.