Can someone tell me the basics on record players?

I've been wanting to get a record player for a while now and preferably a vintage one. I'm not interested in top of the range models or anything like that, I just want something I can play vinyls on which moderately good sound. The thing is I know NOTHING about them. Can someone tell me the basics on record players? like what parts are needed to play a vinyl etc and maybe even some good brands? thanks