This would be a good place to mention the program
Gramofile, free software for Linux that helps you convert your vinyl records to WAV / mp3 by semi-automatically splitting tracks and applying Dolby noise reduction (i.e. remove hiss/pop).
As far as record players, I have a NAD 533 turntable with a Goldring Elektra cartridge, and it is very good for the price. No money was wasted on features that do not aid in faithful audio reproduction.
Unfortunately, NAD seems to have discontinued this model, however there is what I believe to be an identical model under the Goldring brand (I think the NAD model was rebadged):
http://store.acousticsounds.com/brow...16045§ion=
Now, that sucker is $425, which I know is higher than what you're shooting for. I really can't remember what I paid for mine. If you can manage a little more, I would recommend this table.
That same website has a cheaper decent-looking model for $300. And just so that price will seem more reasonable to you, check out their $38,000 model.
Do some research, look around, read reviews. Good luck!
Regarding your receiver:
You will not need an additional amp. At the price range you are looking at, almost every record player you find will use a cartridge (the thingy with the needle) of the "moving-magnet" design, which tend to have a higher output (and supposedly less-elite sound quality) than the "moving-coil" design. If you get up to the $2000 range (where I long to go), you might want to start looking for a turntable-specific amplifier.
You will not regret vinyl. It rules!
Oh yeah....
If you are buying for listening purposes, try to stay away from direct-drive models. Those are made for DJs (and frankly, are what you are mostly likely to find for sale in a lot of stores). Look for a belt-drive model. This helps isolate the motor noise from being picked up through the needle.
Geez, I keep thinking of stuff...
Since you mentioned wanting to avoid damaging your valuable records, MAKE SURE you properly adjust the tonearm pressure. There should be a counterweight on the tonearm that affects how hard the needle pushes down on the record. You want it pushing down hard enough that it doesn't skip, but not so hard that you accelerate record-wear. There will be a procedure to do this that comes with your turntable. The pressure is typically measured in grams, and your cartridge should list a number that it performs ideally at (say, 3.5 to 4.5 grams).
