Best Analog for $10K

Technics 1200G. I doubt you find anything much better and its a lot less. Now if you going to spend 20K+, well then I might say well yes, there are better.  Buy an Acoustic Systems Arche' Headshell and a Lyra Delos and you are set.  Thats about 7G or so.

That is why my simple recommendation especially with regard to new equipment will be a good solution for you. You can find my recommendations in Denver. Have it set up, drive it home, put it on a stand, listen to music without having to worry.

*jperry*
I read a review of the DS Audio Optical cartridge system last night. The reviewer makes it sound both state-of-the-art, and potentially ruthlessly revealing. It certainly differs so from convention that I would surely want to hear the system before committing to it. 
One drawback I can think of is if I purchased a great phono stage, it's adjustability would allow me to try different cartridges. With the DS Audio, you are committed to their complete system. But I did ask to minimize tweaking, didn't I? Lol

If you really want set it and forget it, I still can’t imagine a better option than Rega or Technics. 

You did say you wanted to minimize tweaking. ;-)

Every time you change cartridges you need to re-balance the tonearm and set VTA, unless you have a non detachable headshell, then it is more work. You may also need to reset the cartridge loading for a MC cartridge.

I like fiddling with turntable related stuff, but I know that is not true for everyone.

Whatever you decide have fun and enjoy the music.

Best Regards,

Jim Perry