Turntable for a Newbie!


Folks,

I am seeking recommendations for a TT under $1500.00.  What are the best TT’s currently available, new or used in this range. Nothing tedious, a simple plug n play TT after the initial setup will do. 
The goal here is to experience Vinyl and not build extensive library. My prime source of listening still be digital playback. If I like what I hear and able to sustain the ‘routine’ I may look into upgrading my existing TT / Cartridge down the road. 
A google search of best TT’s under $1500 lead me to bunch of Audio-Technica turntables and Marantz TT-15S1. 
The TT will be played through Shindo’s Monbrison preamp which I believe has a decent phonostage. 
Thank you for your suggestions. 

128x128lalitk
Pioneer PLX1000 with a Nagaoka MP150 is my standard recommendation at this price point. Upgrading the cartridge ’down the road’ to a MP500 will yield results. You might also look at a Technics SL1200GR if you want to invest a little more. Resale should be no problem with that should you want to upgrade in future.
Just stay away from belt drive at this price.

Technics can offer you brand new models:
SL1500c, SL1200mk7, SL1200GR

P.S. Pioneer just tried to copy iconic old Technics design for professional use, when their PLX1000 was released Technics was out of turntable business for some time, so the Pioneer tried to use the niche and they did it. But when Technics announced their return with a brand new superior model like SL1200GAE, G and GR the Pioneer is no longer a contender, Technics is a better turntable. 
Agreed, but the Pioneer is half the price of the cheapest Technics.
A word of warning to the OP. "Experiencing vinyl" is not inexpensive. It really only comes into its own at a much higher price point. So when you hear about all the good things, chances are they are on higher-end tables. Case in point: I have a new $400 Audio Technica VM750 cartridge. It’s pretty solid and well-reviewed. However, swapping in a $1500 Decca literally blows it away.
@lalitk Your system is absolutely beautiful. Check out my turntable in systems. That’s the minimum you need to do justice to your rig. It is also possible that your gear will show up the shortcomings of lower-end turntables...
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Technics 1500c is probably the best bets out there,  proven reliability and long term resale value is also something to consider.  
glennewdick
Technics 1500c is probably the best bets out there, proven reliability and long term resale value is also something to consider. 
The 1500C is likely a good value. But it's been on the market for less than a year, so any remarks about its "proven reliability and long term resale value" are really just speculation, however well-informed.
Pro-Ject and Rega have good selection of affordable turntables.You may also consider the entry level of Clearaudio.
Thank you all for suggestions, keep them coming! 
@noramance,  

Now that’s what I call a audiophile man cave. Gorgeous system, I bet your system sounds amazing!  I do agree with you in regards to your comment  “shortcomings of lower-end turntables...”

cleeds,

I suggest reliability and resale based on technic's previous record with their past direct drive tables ,that these are based on. I think its safe to say things are going to be that much different with their current models. 
Vpi traveler 2 (discontinued) is a nice option for a TT for under 1k. I prefer over the pioneer plx1000, which is pretty darn nice. I dig the sound of belt driven rigs. If you can spring the for newer technics 1200gr seems to be the table to get under 2k. 

I'm going to order the Technics 1500c. If I want to update the phono, the TT has a set of phono outs. The headshells are removable, thus different cartridges are easier (mono, 78, etc). If I get deeper into vinyl, I can keep this unit just for 78's and buy a higher end main TT and pre amp later. This TT is nothing like the old 1980's entry Technics TT's that were really no different than the other brands cheap/basic offerings. This TT will hold good value like the 1200GR series.