Quality "Budget" Turntable?

Pro-ject are a well respected budget brand and I have auditioned past models (not sure I could find an answer for your $250 target?) as at one time I was also toying with the vinyl idea. The other brand I would audition is Rega as again in the past I have enjoyed their Rega Planar 2 and 3 models. I see they have a 'budget' package, the Rega P1, probably to compete with the Pro-ject.

Stereophile: Rega P1 record player

mmm I am tempted again now.

I suggest, and there are many that have said this before; get a used turntable from the 70s/80s. There are a number of threads that discuss whats good to look out for. Thorens 160/150/125/125 for example are all regarded as solid options. I've got a cheap National Panasonic turntable which was brought by my dad years ago and it's still in perfect working condition.

Yes, I guess going 2nd hand could bag a classic. Either way best to buy from someone experienced in setting up a turntable. Take care that platter speeds are still reliable as otherwise the effects will be audible.

2nd hand Technics SL-1210 MK2

Just make sure you don't get one that's been used in a nightclub or mobile disco!

Amazing turntable... Seriously.

BTW, I live in the Peak District... Small world!

Get a used DD technics. It simply doesn't get any better for the money. I got my SL1600 for $50 and I'm probably never upgrading it, it's sick.

And we both own Furby VRS's?

Bloody nora! 'Tis definitely a small world!

The Fabia went a year ago - Driving a V6 A4 now.

You can do Pro-Ject Debut III. Its MSRP is $299, but I bet you there's a dealer who can go a bit less. Or maybe a demo unit.

YouTube - Setting up the Pro-Ject Debut III Turntable: Planet of Sound

I'd look for a decent vintage unit. Check Craigslist, eBay and your local thrift/junk stores.

Needledoctor usually has what you need to get one spinning again, and you can find other budget items at Garage-A-Records.

The debut and the P1 are nice but as someone who started on 1200's moved up to a debut and now owns a project expression III, the P3 or the ExIII are a slamming deal for the money. That sh*t sounds like rainbows, sunshine, and the thundering of unicorn hooves.

haha! 100 years late on the thread but my for 10 cents worth my P3 I bought in '85 with an old Ortofon  MC10 Super still raises the hair on my arms (esp with orig pressings)