i have to say T bone's sugestion, is one as if to say, don't bother you won't(i don't) think it is any big deal and you won't like it anyway! WRONG! Vinyl is more then just the music, it is a obsession, it is a hobby, it is involvement in the music, it is a conection to the music, it expands your taste into band you would have never heard before, it is an investment, and when done right, it is GREAT sounding music! it is not for everyone but if it is to your liking it can be an adiction that can't be kicked. the bit of good advise he gave is to start used. i found vpi's a great starting point, but buy the best you can afford and are comfortable with spending. there is a lot of great new and used vinyl out there and more every day. i buy originals. rarely do i buy reissues, first issues usally are the best sounding and the most collectable. so if you chose to take the plunge good luck and enjoy the jurney. i have had a great ride up to now and plan to continue for many years to come.
Suggested entry path into vinyl...
...if cost is not a major constraining factor (within limits :-)). I guess my question is do experienced vinyl enthusiasts recommend starting with a "entry-level" analog set up and tweaking and upgrading over time to maximize one's learning of what one likes by sampling different tt/tonearm/cartridge/phono setups (as well as learning how to correctly set-up and handle tts and associated gear on less expensive equipment), or would you just buy a more "evolved" (and likely more expensive) setup at the outset that you have heard within the context of the rest of your playback system and that you like the sound of (but perhaps make expensive mistakes on that gear). I am deliberately staying away from specific examples to get at folks' opinions/recommendations about the approaches. Thanks for your thoughts in advance.