Am I a hopeless audio snob?

I don’t think you are. I have owned a VPI Aries and now a contemporary Linn LP12 for thirty years. The VPI opened my eyes and shocked me at what was possible leaving the turntables of the 20th century behind. I asked my audio guy about some of these old brands (Technics in particular), what gives. He thought nostalgia. He has gotten some in trade (old and new) and has spent hours trying to get high quality sound out of them, and was unable to do so. I trust this guy completely, we have been friends for twenty years.

Look to, VPI, Clear Audio, Pro-jest, contemporary Linn. Have a serious look at the VPI Prime.

Kuzma

I too would look at the VPI very closely. I've had 2 or 3 of them and was quite satisfied with the sound & service

Technics 80s low tech? Might want to reconsider what late 70s and early 80s tech was to turntable development and Technics role in that. Not to mention what they do now.

There are tables I prefer in the sub $10k zone tho...

I totally agree with your feelings about visual impressions.

There are certain brands of speakers I deliberately avoid listening

to for fear I may like the sound. Super

Blingy looking brands of gear are also a turn off for me. 

If something strikes you as cheap looking, keep looking!