Best turntable/cartridge/phono preamp combo

I allready have tons of vinyl that I collected mainly because it's in very good condition and was thinking that I could save it and sell later for more money. I am just just looking for a really good turntable preamp cartridge combo. I want to know the best way to spend my 1500 on these components. I also plan on using this setup to turn lps into cds via my powermac, So I want somthing that will accuratly reproduce what is on the record and not add any color. Also would I be better of buy sperate parts to make my own turntable or just getting one stock. Also should I go MM or MC which will give me more accurate sound??

Thanks

Mattythegreat

Buy a used Music Hall MM-7 and a manual record cleaning machine. If you like what you hear and want to upgrade, the MM-7 will sell for very close to what you paid.

Small steps.

You'll probably want to go MM. MC adds a layer of complexity and usually more cost.

Matty,
If you are who you say you are, the Great, then get the GREATEST turntable/arm/cart for the money. Notice I am not including a preamp, that's because a preamp will cost some additional $. I doubt what the other members propose- VPI, MMF, with arm and cart, will leave any $ for a pre as you stated in your post.
So, here's my suggestion: Lenco 75 w/ RB300/ Denon 103 cart. Cost to have one made, about $1200-$1500. Cost for you to build, about $800-$1000 depending on how much you spend on the Lenco as they are getting more expensive by the minute. The Lenco, Swiss made in the 70s, is an idler wheel drive as opposed to a belt drive.
After I rebuilt my first Lenco, I sold 3 belt drives- MMF, VPI and B&O. There are several posts by others who have sold their expensive belt drives after they heard a properly set up Lenco.
Be warned, you will keep your vinyl and start adding to your collection.
Search the 'gon for info about these fantastic tables.
Good luck.

Actually a used Music Hall MMF-7 (about $800), a manual record cleaning machine (figure $150), and a used Creek OBH-8 phono preamplifier (about $125) are well under his target price.

This is the easiest and most affordable entry into vinyl. Lastly, the Music Hall and Creek are easy to sell on Audiogon when upgraditis hits.

All of course IMO.