My favorite entry-level turntable is the Rega P1. There are other options, including the Music Hall MMF2.2 and Pro-Ject Debut III (Bob Reina reviews this in an upcoming issue). The Denon DP-300F looks sorta interesting, too; haven't heard it, though.

I'd second the Rega P1 and suggest looking at the one modified by LP Gear for $395.

Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Turntable $260

Quote:
Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Turntable $260

Lamont,
How does it stand up against its peers? Pros and cons? How does it sound?

Project Debut III for $349 in basic black, or $379 is great colors. Come with an Ortofon OM-5e you can upgrade later to an OM40 with a stylus change. A glass platter would be your next move. I have not heard of any speed issues with this table like the P1.

I would enthusiastically second the Rega recommendations here. My first 'table 25 years ago was a Planar 3 and I never looked back.

If SQ is the priority and the budget is flexible I would even advocate stretching for a pre-owned P2 on Audiogon (like this one for $440 incl Elys cartridge, now sold ). If not, the P1 as mentioned above can maybe be equalled, but I doubt it can be bettered.

Good luck!

Another up on the Rega... They are fantastic tables, and are a perfect bed upon which to implement incremental upgrades, should you ever feel the need to..

I have a Rega p2 which I adore. Even after I got my SOTA table, I never lost taste for the rega.

Also: Sign up for Important Records' mailing list, and you can buy a P1 from them for $350.

Second all recs. Also, you may look at a used Rega P2. I recently sold mine with a Rega Bias cart (both in great condition) for about $350. So there are deals to be had.