My advice would be an idler from a respected Wammer whose condition can be vouched for - one example being my old Garrard 401 that was featured in Spider's second system at his recent bake off (not that he's selling..). A TD124 with something done about the fast start broadcast platter,( such as placing it in a drawer far away from any record), would be another candidate. The motors can get bunged up and one that's been stripped and lubricated is a good idea.
For ease of use, sound quality and perceived value, a nice Technics SP10 is hard to beat in the right plinth.
I have used, or do use, all three. They are all well within budget.
For the phono stage I would use a Denon head amp (or Disarmament's DIY head amp or SUT mentioned in another wanted ad) with a valve phono stage. There are a number to choose from. Or a rated SS phono stage such as a Graham Slee with a MC option. Bigbottles are MC compatible and are liked by some South Coast types down here.
Jack NSM