Well; there really isn't that much you need to know. At the price level you mention and you want to go new; then think about certain things is how I look at it. Is the arm decent? Does the table have a following; ie, is there good manufacturer support. What is your long term goal regarding albums. Do you want to build a collection; or do you just want something to play a hundred or so records on. At the 400$ price point you can get a decent deck that will play records and sound good. If you want or plan to build a real collection then you might want to spend more. That deck looks good; I am sure they are OEM suppliers for it so we don't know who makes it; but at that price and with a cartridge you can get by and be happy. I mean really how many hours a day will you be listening? Now if you want audiophile sound; well that's a different ballgame. What does the VPI JR sell for nowadays?