A source is a component and should be a balanced part of any system. If you're plaaning to go the whole hog with a $5K phonostage, a $10K cartridge, a $15K preamp and a pair of $47K Wavac HE833 monoblocks with a bunch of Wilsons, then buying a $15-20K turntable makes perfectly good sense. Short of that, for a regular $3-4K system, a scout, a Bluenote Piccolo, the entry level Michell or even a Bluenote Bellavista is more than adequate. You can also get some good deals on audiogon on the Linn Sondek LP12s. For people wanting to take the tweak route, starting with the VPI-19 Jr and upgrading it in stages to the MK IV spec. is also another cost efficient option. Todd has some really good deals now on the Bluenotes and gave me an excellent deal on my vinyl rig. This rig simply takes my CD collection and gives it the thrashing of its life in terms of presence, muicality and soundstage. For anyone investing in music, this is the way to go.