A low cost way to try phono once again?

You are ALL------ nuts get the Rega RP1 w/cartridge under $500 and be done with it.Their tonearm alone is worth this price. You have to spend 3Xs as much to hear a difference. In a year if you want to upgrade buy a $500 MC Cart

Thanks for all the info ...

I'll be buying a TT and Phono pre soon. I read a little more about the RP1, that is one tempting me. I'll also research the others that are mentioned.

I'm looking for a DAC as well, I hope to latch onto a Benchmark as soon as I can locate one at a decent price.

I think to try a turntable your budget should under $500 and all equipment should be used. It is a bit of a trick question depending on what vinyl you own. I would probably double the budget if I had a collection. I would still stay used.

You can get respectable equipment in this price range. Good enough to tell if the whole experience warrants more investment. If you are like most I'm sure you will end up spending much more. Keep it light and fun. Buy high quality vinyl. You get what you pay for if you buy from reputable places.

Check out the Hanss T-10 at 1800. It comes with cartridge, built-in phono stage, and tonearm. Nice table and built very well. I have the T-30 on my showroom floor and it is a great sounding table that's very reasonably priced.
Disclaimer: I am a dealer for Hanss tables.