Best TT for the buck?

I would go with the Pro-ject Debut III. You should be able to get it delivered for around $350 from NeedleDoctor. No worries; just take it out of the box, take out 2 transport screws, put on the belt, put on the counterweight and adjust, attach the anti-skate weight, put on the platter and mat, and finally put on a record and enjoy.

It's really that easy. It takes less than 5 minutes.

PMB

Ive heard bad things from people about the debut III and i am trying to avoid it. For one it has no VTA and has a good bit of wow and flutter. I recently found an oracle alexandria for around 500 bucks but the clamp is broken. does this sound like a good deal?

I haven't had an issue, but if you wish to avoid the Pro-Ject deck, you can look to a recommendation from someone with a little different experience.

In any case, my preference on a tight budget is to avoid used. Others may have different opinions, but I prefer to have a warranty and the ability to return if I can't afford to duplicate the purchase. I bought my Debut III because I wasn't sure I would like vinyl. Had I known, I would have waited and bought something a lot better. I'm actually enjoying the tt, and don't really feel like I am missing out until I decide what tt/arm/cart combo I will end up with in the $5K range.

It sounds like you are bent on used gear, which is fine, but I wouldn't want to buy used gear unless it is in perfect working order and is from a reputable seller here on the 'Gon.

Looks like there is a Moth in your price range:
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?anlgtabl&1307576484&/Moth-Alamo

SOTA Moonbeam II is also pretty close to your budget. Happy listening.

PMB

get that denon

Thanks for all the help guys. This really is a great community. I'll be sure to let y'all know what I get.