LP's... Do they sound better now than 30 yrs ago?

As far as stylus shapes cantilever material that technology was around 30 years ago . My Technics SH305S SUT has a amorphous core . The best vinyl play back gear was already made in the late 80s  . The biggest improvement is in Phono stages  

Engined, I don't think so. Line contact is now commonplace. One piece integrated diamond cantilever is available. The best amorphous core step-up transformers from Lundahl are of superior quality. I tried Koetsu transformers from 30 years ago, and they aren't even close.

Grant you that phono stages are much improved, especially solid state, now that more people can design with complementary devices.

Hi Terry read about the Sony XL88D  .The Japanese spent the money to develop these products years ago with large budgets .Do your research and you will see what I am talking about .

I find very few current pressed records that can match 60's and 70's pressings which  most of my collection is comprised of....a good cleaning ritual and a sizable investment in playback has kept digital out of my blood.