let me add to your questions..I am also coming ack to vinyl in a very modest way after 30 years. I have ordered a used Thorens turntable BUT, the only amp I own with a phono input is part of my video system and about 8 feet away from where the turntalbe MUST go. I suspect the turntable cables that come with the thing will not run that far. Is there such a thing as an aftermarket wire for such situations and what is it called?

I have joined the Idaho vinyl preservation society and am having a blast playing with the systems, though my version of 'affordable' and 'budget' is not on the same page as stereophile. The entire setup from turntable to cartridge to wire has to cost well under $400.