The EAR 834P will take you along way, especially if you modify it. I wouldn't make the decision about MM or MC until you decide on what arm you will have. That will dictate what cartridge you can use. Have you experienced vinyl in the past? Do you like the warm, musical sound or do you lean more to the highly detailed, somewhat brighter sound? What type of music do you enjoy? Just want to get you thinking.
The Animal makes a good point. There is alot of information along your line of questioning in the archives.
The Animal makes a good point. There is alot of information along your line of questioning in the archives.