How do you choose a turntable ?

Usually, you first choose a turntable itself, then the rest. It is the first element in the chain.

Turntables can be difficult because even if you audition at a dealership it’s hard to separate what the turntable is doing from the rest of the system. But that’s probably the best most people can do. I do a lot of research, and read reviews. Not for the subjective opinions because there are so many conflicts that are undisclosed for magazines and reviewers that I don’t care about their subjective opinions. Plus, they are listening in a different room with different equipment from mine so even if it’s an honest review I’m not sure how valuable it would be. On the other hand, you can learn a lot about the features of the table, construction quality, etc.

if you can go to a show, it’s great to actually see the products and a demonstration. That’s not always feasible but very helpful if you can do it. I agree with @ghdprentice that at least for me, I would always buy my turntable from a dealer. Arm and cartridge matching can be tricky. Also, set up can make a huge difference with a turntable. A lot of people can get them to play music, but if you get your table set up by a real pro I think that makes a tremendous difference. 

Good luck!

Anyone has Walker or SME ?

I read reviews, looked at what was available at local dealers to ensure I had a support system, asked for suggestions here and shared my budget. 

I knew that I was not ready for a project and stuck to established brands (VPI and Dr. Feickert).  I wanted one that felt substantial, well-built and a good value that punched above it's weight.  

Ultimately, I settled upon the Dr. Feickert Volare 25th Anniversary.  It didn't have the beautiful wood plinth that some of the other models had and badly wanted, but it performs almost as well as models priced much higher and came with an arm and a Hana ML cartridge.  I even had dough left in my budget to purchase a BAT Phonostage with the Superpack Upgrade (which I'll upgrade at some point if I stick with vinyl).  So, I choose a turntable by being careful.  I took my time, waited for/stumbled upon the right deal, and pulled the trigger.  

Next purchase is a statement-level tube DAC.There's a used one for 1/2 off, but my wallet is exhausted.  So, I'll wait for the next deal.  

"How do you choose a turntable ?"

best rotational speed accuracy / wow&flutter, most carts compatible tonearm / good looking!