I am looking to try out a new turntable after living with and enjoying an older Technics Direct Drive model, SL-Q3 for a few years. I always enjoyed the Technics for its auto shutoff when I feel like falling asleep with music playing, but I am awaiting a refurbished Dual right now that I want to use for 78s and which I can also use when I feel like I need something automatic. I'd like to try out something simpler in a manual table for my main listening and have been looking at the lower models of the Pro-ject line as I don't have a ton to spend.

I see a lot of the Debuts around for good prices, and there is the new-ish Genie model which I am uncertain about as it sells for more than the debut in the US, but less than the Debut in the UK. I do like the look of the Genie, but it it is going to sound the same or worse than a lower model, I'm not sure it is a good idea. Also, seems there are plenty of deals on the Debut models, but I'm only seeing full-price genies domestically.

The other idea is to wait and see if I can come across a model a bit higher up used. I guess I am wondering if it is worth maybe tossing in another 1 or 2 hundred dollars and looking at a model just about the debut or perhaps a used Music Hall 5.0 or 5.1 if a bargain comes across. Am I really getting that much more to wait and/or spend a bit more?

I plan on sticking with the Denon 103 and Denon transformer I am already using so the cartridge doesn't matter if I buy used.

Any suggestions? Just grab a Debut? Wait for something higher up the line to show up used? (And no, not another Technics. I like the one I have fine and all, just wanting a bit of a change. Other non-vintage suggestions welcome, but I'm not really handy and figure one vintage table will be enough for me.)