For a first table I generally recommend buying from a local dealer who can make sure everything is set up correctly and can show you the ropes as far as TT basics goes (VTA, VTF, Azimuth, Cartridge compliance etc..)
Once you are comfortable setting up a TT yourself then I'd recommend looking at used tables for your next purchase as the value proposition is generally much better.
If you are already comforable setting up a TT or are a DIY kind of person, then you can probably skip my first step and buy used without a problem. My personal bias in belt drive tables that provide good value are Nottingham and Well Tempered.
Finally, if you need to buy a phono stage, don't skimp here. The phono stage has a meaningful impact on sound quality. Bite the bullet and get a good one.
Once you are comfortable setting up a TT yourself then I'd recommend looking at used tables for your next purchase as the value proposition is generally much better.
If you are already comforable setting up a TT or are a DIY kind of person, then you can probably skip my first step and buy used without a problem. My personal bias in belt drive tables that provide good value are Nottingham and Well Tempered.
Finally, if you need to buy a phono stage, don't skimp here. The phono stage has a meaningful impact on sound quality. Bite the bullet and get a good one.