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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?

Duals are nice. They are cheaply available on eBay. Just make sure the seller knows how to pack turntables.

Rega makes some nice entry-level turntables for a reasonable price. I own a turntable that Rotel subsidized Rega to build for them. It's all manual and has the RB200 tonearm and an Audio Technica AT120E cartridge. Got it on eBay for $250.

I'd look on Craigslist too. That's where real deals can be found if you're lucky.

Min

The Regas are hard to beat for the money. Audiogon has a Rega P3 w/o tonearm for $160. There is also an NAD 533 (Rega P2) with arm and low use cartridge for $300.

If you buy a turntable that needs an arm, the Rega 250 is great. Also, the old Grace 707 is a real sleeper and can usually be had for less than $100. Sumiko MMts are great arms for the money too.

If you aren't in a hurry, you can find some great deals on good classic turntables.

I myself am a direct drive guy. I have a Panasonic SP-10 and a Micro Seiki DDX-1000. The SL-1200 you mentioned is a great DD TT. You can find good deals on these if you look around. The Kenwood KD-500 is an "old school" DD sleeper and deals do show up.

Other than the Rega type tables, I would stay away from any TT with an integrated arm. They usually are bad performers (or damaged) and do not lend themselves to fitting a good arm on them.

For cartridges the Denon DL-160 is a steal. The Shure V15 is also a great cartridge.

Good luck in your search!

Bill