I just recently found how amazing vinyl can sound on a road trip I took with a few friends and heard the true quality that I was missing from a record in a small ma pop restaurant.

Since then, I have been hunting down records for songs that I love (sam cooke, nina simone, delfonics, cooke, redding, sinatra,and newer artists etc etc) and am extremely excited to hear them and feel all that I've been missing.

Unfortunately, I am clueless, and hate the idea of posting this thread because the amount of these generic 'help me' threads must be staggering.

I recently purchased a Rega P1 and am waiting for it to arrive, however I have been somewhat stumped in what other parts I would need (phono preamp, speakers, something to play 78rpm's since I think the p1 only plays 45 and 33.3.. and honestly how to even tell what speed a record is)

I don't really expect a handout or someone to take too much time to hold my hand through this entire process, but if anyone could direct me to some websites where I can find information or any recommendations on equipment I should purchase for a great listening experience (I really couldn't care less about the appearance) that would be great.

I also realize that a lot of this process is completely dependent on me and my tastes, and it is impossible for someone to recommend something to me without knowing my preferences, but any direction would be great.

Again, I apologize for such a vague and helpless topic, and as you read this I am still looking through reviews, googling topics, and trying to learn more as I can, but being a full time student, and working 40 hours a week, on top of being on the university's water polo team, my free time has taken somewhat of a deathblow this semester.

Thanks,
Mike

edit: I have also driven to many record stores in Houston, and to no avail, if anyone knows of any good stores that would have a knowledgeable staff, please tell :P I live in the Upper Kirby area if anyone is familiar with Houston