Linn Sondek LP-12 tonearm recommendations?

I would look for a used Linn Ekos which is available in your price range I would not bother to rewire the Rega, just keep it as a spare or sell it. It will not be as good as the Ekos no matter what wire you put in it.

What turntable and pickup arm are you using now? If you’re just starting out, I’d keep the Rega for now.

The Ekos is a good choice, as is the Ittok, which will save you money if you can find a good one.  I had a Rega 6 something? on my Linn, which was ok, but needed a lot of shims with the Lyra I was using and a different cable routing.  The Ekos was a lot better.  But I agree with cleeds - get it set up and running and then figure it out later.  A lot of people run their Linns with Rega arms.  Shouldn't be a problem.