@robertq    The AT-LPA2 is the current flagship of the AT line and appears to be one of the better values in entry level turntables. A moving coil OC9XEN is supplied along with a separate speed/power control unit(avoid any TT with a wall wart). I have NOT heard this unit but this would be on a very short list if looking for a competent high value turntable.

I've been using my Thorens TD125 for about 40 years.  I did upgrade the tone arm to an SME III from a type II.  I have not found anything that sounds better on my system.  I also have an Revox b790 but you are limited on what cartridges you can use. It works best with very light cartridges.  

@robertq,

This goes out to not only you, but to anyone else wanting to get their first turntable. I’d look at the under the radar, for first time turntable buyers the Technics Direct Drive Turntable - SL-100C. 

Unlike the Technics Direct Drive SL-1500C it does not come with a built in phono preamp. Which is actually a good thing. It lessens any chance of electrical cross-talk, and lets you use the money you’ve save from buying the SL-1500C on getting a much better stand alone outboard phono preamp which probably will be much better anyway than the internal one on the SL-1500C.

And an added bonus is you can upgrade to a better phono preamp at your leisure and convenience. What I like about it the most is it has not all but a lot of the trickle down engineering from the most expensive Technics turntables.

Although some don’t like the removable headshell, I like having that option for its simplicity and ease of use when changing and considering trying other cartridges and styli. You just have to have an original spare Technics headshell. Very cost and labor effective if you ask me. 

For the price/performance ratio and easy upgradeability to a better phono preamp, it’s a steal. And trust me, you’ll want to upgrade your phono preamp in the future. Can anyone say ’tube phono preamp’?

And the thing about Audio Technica turntables? Most, not all, look at Audio Technica turntables as ’copies’ of Technics turntables and don’t want a copy when you can get an/the original. Hope this helps.

 

 

 

Unless you really like the phono stage on your integrated amp (I'm unfamiliar with it), you should consider getting a quality outboard phono stage which will more than likely make a huge difference in sound quality over most onboard stages, and you will get the most out of your table and cartridge, especially if you opt for a moving coil.

The guys on here can help you with the gear questions. My only advice is to remember that if your total budget is $2500. I’d think an out the 3 components you need. Turntable, cartridge, phono amp with both MM and MC capabilities. Think about 60% on turntable, 15-25% on phono preamp and the rest on the cartridge. Personally I think the cartridge makes the most noticeable difference. Like you will notice a more expensive cartridge vs a more expensive turntable. You can get a nice turntable for under $1500 for sure and don’t hesitate to get used from reputable sellers on Audiogon and US Audiomart or places like The Music Room. I love the high output Hana MC cartridges and the VM series of the Audio Technica cartridges. Best of luck and welcome to the vinyl journey.