A used modern table would give you the most for the money but a carefully chosen older table can be good also. A Micro Seki BL-91 or 51 would also be a good choice. A Linn LP 12 is both vintage and modern and offers many upgrade paths. There is really no way to compare older tables as a group and newer ones as a group; it has to be table A vs table B. Furthermore, the differences would not be entirely due to age. I have had both Logic 101s and VPI Scoutmasters [neither right now] but I couldn't really say how they compare; just because one is older does not make it worse. The standards of turntable performance have risen but the cost has risen faster. Choose a good table of either vintage and you will be fine.
Vintage or new turntable
I'd like to upgrade my turntable. I'm fairly new to vinyl, having recently won a nice entry level table. I've found that I really enjoy the whole vinyl process and am now ready for an upgrade. I'm trying to decide between a new, modern table or a restored AR or Thorens (perhaps from VinylNirvana) Budget would be approx. $1500, with cartridge. I like the looks of both the modern and vintage tables, so I'm wondering which would give me the best sound. Can anyone, with knowledge of both, offer advice on the sonic differences? I'm unable to hear a vintage table, so asking the forum. Thanks for any advice.