Entry level turntable for my son

Steer clear of "Toy" tables. I picked up an AudioTechnica AT-LP60 used for like 50$ off a friend (they retail at Best Buy for like 149 or something). It worked OK when I was using my HT receiver, but sounded miserable once I finally got around to upgrading to a real high-end amp. After that I picked up a Denon DP-300F. That actually sounded REALLY good. It was fully automatic and had a built-in preamp and lasted me until I picked up a really nice Emotiva differential with a built in Phono stage. Gave that one to my parents (who say it sounded better than the turn table they had growing up!) and grabbed a used Pro-Ject Debut Carbon used for like 350. It is incredible! Highly recommended and super affordable. Plus, it's rife with mods and extras to really geek out on.

Belt drive turntables must be avoided for sure, this is the worst investment, especially the cheap ones. Comparing cheap belt drive to $300-500 used DD Technics SL1210mkII is very bad idea, Technics always better in everything (and can be upgraded, if needed, by changing the arm, feet, power supply etc). You can’t buy anything better than this for $300-500 for a 16 year old kid.

Also in a youth comminity Technics is a legendary turntable used by their idols (deejays) in music videos and on stage, in the clubs etc, your hi-fi belt drive is nothing for them.

Technics DD previously used by DJ has no problem at all (if the tonearm is not damaged, which everyone can check). It’s impossible to damage Technisc DD motor, no matter who is the user, i have those turntables for 23 years, my neighbour have them for 30 years. Many friend purchased them used and some of them made in the late 80s or early 90s, still no problem to use at all. Every spare part for SL1200mkII or SL1210mkII available on ebay new in the boxes and can be replaced by any technician. This is Made In Japan quality and a cult turntable in the history. They made more than 3 000 000 of them and this is the reson why the price is so low.

A bnad new cost just $1399 (with phono stage and cartridge included)!
https://www.technics.com/us/news/20190107-sl-1500c/

the Technics is nice, no doubt about it.

Another vote for U-turn Orbit. Got one for my daughter with the Ortofon Red cartridge. She absolutely loves it! I believe the outboard phono stage and the one mounted in the TT have the same internals.