Quote Originally Posted by nightflier
Joe, Tommy,

If I understand this correctly, these are some of the criteria I should be looking for:

1. Solid brand name like Pioneer, Mistubishi, Yamaha, Phase Linear (is that where the name came from?).
2. Accepts standard cartridge
3. Has good quality tracking mechanism
4. Tracking is not attached to the lid

I realise that No. 3 above is key. What are some of the ways I can determine that?

Any other suggestions? There's a Marants unit on eBay that looks decent:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...MEWA%3AIT&rd=1

And a few others:

Sansui (bad pics):
http://cgi.ebay.com/Sansui-P-L51-Dir...QQcmdZViewItem

B&O:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Bang-Olufsen-Beo...QQcmdZViewItem

Luxman:
http://cgi.ebay.com/LXI-Luxman-Linea...QQcmdZViewItem

Sony:
http://cgi.ebay.com/SONY-DIRECT-DRIV...QQcmdZViewItem

No Phase Linear, but that Sony unit (PS-LX500) seems to be pretty popular. Any thoughts?
I would not buy a linear tracker.The only decent linear tracking arms are rather expensive. I would not buy a B&O because of the non standard cartridge. If I was looking for an inexpensive used TT I would look for an AR. I have had many TT's over the years and will have nothing but belt drives. If you are willing to spend the money look for a used VPI or SOTA. The VPI HW19 JR that I own has been upgraded to full HW19 status. The upgrade path is the main reason I purchased the Jr in the beginning. If you can spring for $300 I highly recommend a new Music Hall. If that is a viable option or even if it isn't check out www.needledoctor.com they have a great selection of TT's at prices that range from reasonable to unbelievable. They also carry a very extensive line of phono cartridges. I'm not familiar with that particular Luxman TT but their products have always impressed me. As far as I know Luxman no longer has a presence in the US.