[Blu.]

I want to get a turntable for Christmas. Any suggestions for something under $500? Also should I go vintage or new? Thanks

 

[ronnielee54]

Here is a few suggestions
 
http://www.musicdirect.com/product/73926 
 
http://www.musicdirect.com/product/86921 
 
http://www.musicdirect.com/product/88401
 
 
As for vintage or new, I would probably go new if I were starting over.  For the most part I have been lucky buying used, but I have been burned a couple of times.  With new you are a lot safer in getting something that works.
 
 

 

[Skylab]

Those are all good suggestions, Ronnlielee.  And I agree also that, unless you are the kind of person who really likes to tinker, it's best to start with a TT that comes delivered pre-set-up.  It takes a while to get good at cartridge installation and alignment, and it does require some tools. 

 

[Uncle Erik]

For $500, I'd go used and look at some Rega decks at Audiogon. As long as the deck is disassembled before shipping and packed well, there isn't that much to worry about. Most turntables are quite simple and easy to work on, plus there are tons of spare parts and upgrades for a Rega. Anything that goes wrong can be fixed quickly with little more than a screwdriver.

As for setting one up, you can always use a Rega cartridge for simple alignment - they're designed for that. Getting the weight right and levelling aren't bad, either.

Also, you will probably move on from your first deck eventually. If you buy used, you'll get almost all of your money back when you sell it.

 

[RonaldDumsfeld]

It is a shame your budget is not just a little higher as there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the best solution would be a Technics SL-!210.
 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technics_SL-1200
 
Mind you you should be able to get hold of a top notch second hand version for well within your budget. They are bombproof.

 

[jilgiljongiljing]

I've been very happy with my Rega P1 in the 400$ range. I wouldnt trade it for anything in that price range. If anything I'd like to get the P3 next. But thats a ways away right now.

 

[Olias of Sunhillow]

I'm quite satisfied with my Technics SL-1200mk2 -- they're nearly indestructible and sound quite good for the money. You should be able to find one under $400 if you're patient (and be picky about who you buy from, as many used Tech tables have been clearly abused by previous owners).
 
I'm curious about the new Rega RP1, which is said to greatly improve upon the previous P1 and fits your budget, but personally, I'm not buying another table until I can reach for what I really want -- a VPI Classic.

 

[golgi]

Another one with a Technics SL12xx here.  Solid turntable which I'm sure will outlast me.  

 

[Blu.]

what about vintage turntables like these 
http://www.dcwstore.com/turntables/cr49ta.jpg

 

[Skylab]

Quote:

what about vintage turntables like these 
http://www.dcwstore.com/turntables/cr49ta.jpg

That is not a "real" audio-quality turntable, it's a novelty item.

 

[Uncle Erik]

Quote:

what about vintage turntables like these 
http://www.dcwstore.com/turntables/cr49ta.jpg

 
Those aren't even vintage.  Someone bought the Crosley name to make a bunch of nostalgia reproduction stuff - almost entirely junk.
 
Now, the old Crosley stuff is nice.