Budget for new turntable under 3000.

[Polypoid]

For the SQ such a Technics would give you, that'll be hugely overpriced.

I wouldn't venture to guess the SQ of that particular hugely-modified 1200, but I am in the group that happens to like the SQ of the stock 1200. Granted, when I bought my two 1200's (I bought them both brand new a few years apart from different vendors), the combined cost (including shipping) was less than $1000.

I have no complaints and no regrets.

 

[livestrong]

Some very nice thoughts by Mister Pig there. I'll add some of my own from my personal experience and research.

First - can I ask where you're located? If you happen to be in driving distance of Minnesota, I've got a crazy idea for you

My recommendations would include...

Pro-Ject Xtension 10
Stunning table with great value in my opinion. It is $3K new, but here is an example of a new one for $2,200 (no affiliation with the seller) (link)
And here is a link to a recent review.

Pick a color, any color

VPI Classic / Scout / Scoutmaster
These have already been suggested - if you can find a B Stock Classic as others have suggested for $2K, I think that is an incredible value. I've had the VPI Scout and was beyond impressed with how awesome it sounded. I wouldn't hesitate recommending that table to anyone under the $3K mark…and it can be had for less than half of that price.
My Scout:

My entire system is currently undergoing a major change. Once I'm ready, I've narrowed my next turntable down to 1 of the 4 above mentioned tables. The cartridge recommendation may be another question depending on what phono preamp your using and what table you land on. The Ortofon 2M Black and Dynavector 10x5 would probably be on my short list, but there are obviously lots of other options.