Looking forward to the results of your decision. 
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IMO, most of what ruins records is dust and dirt. Starting with a good clean record and the religious removal of dust from the record and stylus is critical.
And buy a tracking force gauge. I can’t think of a mfr that doesn’t provide a movable counterweight.
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This really is a practical non-issue with records.
The problem is inner groove distortion on a symphony end if it occurs. This is annoying and harms the record grooves. The rest is just play and have fun.
Ah yes, but it was the 80s, man, and shiz like that seemed plausible to me age 20 
Good move. Prudence is really difficult in a new endeavor. Especially if funds are available.
I sold my records to the local record resale shop for $1 each and gave away my TT and dont miss it at all. I believe in your case any descent entry level TT and cart will suffice very well.
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