I just purchased a VPI Classic turntable to use as my vinyl source, and I have to say it is a beautifully made turntable. It's got a heavy machined aluminum platter, a heavy chassis, a nice walnut finish that matches my walnut equipment cabinet, and it's just a general pleasure to use and listen to.

The Classic comes with the tonearm, record clamp, and isolation feet and is easy to set up out of the box. The price is remarkably fair for this level of quality at $2500 USD.

I'm using the Leben Hi-Fi Company CS30EQ phono equalizer and a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood Moving Magnet cartridge with it, which is a really nice combination. Below is a closeup of the tonearm.