I would suggest a different approach (from someone who was once in your position) - don't concern yourself with "tweeks" and "upgrades" until you get some experience with this medium. The myriad options will boggle your mind.
Get a table that will keep you sufficently happy, but don't (IMHO) go overkill until you *know* you're ready to commit the big bucks (a properly equiped Rega P25 will set you back $2K new) and don't tweek until you can appreciate the subtle changes.
I would recommend a Music Hall MMF-5 as a starter table. For just under $500.00 (new), you get a glass platter, spilt plinth, record clamp, AND a Goldring 1012GX cartridge (which alone is $225.00 at www.needledoctor.com). If you buy the table locally, the dealer will probably make sure it is set up properly (which is a good thing).
Also, be sure to budget for accessories. A good carbon-fiber brush is a must. Also, I can't recommend the Disk Doctor cleaning process enough (www.discdoc.com). Also, consider a stylus cleaning kit. Most people don't consider these expenses (about $100 - $120) when budgeting for a table.
Just some things to consider.
Get a table that will keep you sufficently happy, but don't (IMHO) go overkill until you *know* you're ready to commit the big bucks (a properly equiped Rega P25 will set you back $2K new) and don't tweek until you can appreciate the subtle changes.
I would recommend a Music Hall MMF-5 as a starter table. For just under $500.00 (new), you get a glass platter, spilt plinth, record clamp, AND a Goldring 1012GX cartridge (which alone is $225.00 at www.needledoctor.com). If you buy the table locally, the dealer will probably make sure it is set up properly (which is a good thing).
Also, be sure to budget for accessories. A good carbon-fiber brush is a must. Also, I can't recommend the Disk Doctor cleaning process enough (www.discdoc.com). Also, consider a stylus cleaning kit. Most people don't consider these expenses (about $100 - $120) when budgeting for a table.
Just some things to consider.