I received two large boxes of records with the last console I found on Craigslist. The console is a 1947 Magnavox Belvedere. The records consist of about 40 boxed sets of classical composers and the Time-Life collection on Swing (1930~1950). I'm trying to figure out what to do with the Belvedere. It's a really nice piece, and I don't think I can stomach the thought of gutting it for iron. It does have a nice power tranny, though. I know what I'm going to do with the records - play them and listen to them! Right now I have a friends Beogram on loan, but I want to find my own turntable.
Where should I be looking? Craigslist, eBay, thrift stores... I think I'm after something like a Technics SL-something, but there are so many models. The 1200 is too popular and commands high prices. Any of the 13/14/15/16/1700 units look nice. I'd probably be happier with one that had auto-return, but it isn't a necessity. The D2 looks like a good choice too. There must be other brands I should be watching - Pioneer? Denon? Sony? Dual? I know there are a couple of Dual fans around here.
I think I'm fine with buying something that is missing the cartridge, or even the headshell. Headshells seem cheap, and used cartridges seem like a big scary unknown to me. I should buy a new cartridge for whatever used turntable I get, right? I think P-mount only tables are probably something to avoid? I'd rather have something with a universal tonearm that will take standard cartridges. What's the difference between a cartridge and a stylus, anway? Elliptical? Conical? Where's the big primer for turntable newbies? Everything you always wanted to know about turntables, but were afraid to ask?