What to expect in a TT upgrade?


I've owned a well tempered classic table for many years. I've enjoyed it but have always found it a bit challenging to set up. (make sure the cartridge is alligned properly)I think consequently, I've never gotten the performance out of it I should have. Recently, I purchased a new pre that came with a really nice phone stage. (Joule) I've been considering purchasing a new table/arm or purchasing a new cartridge such as a shelter 501. My budget for the table/arm/cartridge would be in the $ 2,500 - $ 3,000 range. Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts about what is the best way to go. If I did get a new table, I would want one that is fairly easy to set up. Thanks for any input on this decision.
redcarerra
In your price range, the Pro-ject RM10 with a Sumiko Blackbird cartridge (under $3000 as a combination) is high quality, yet easy to set up. It's totally non-tweaky. (Just be careful of the extremely fragile stylus. In fact, let your dealer align the cartridge).

The Well Tempered is a fine table, but the RM10 comes with its own isolation base, a massive platter, 10" carbon fiber arm and an easy to get at cartridge mount (fixed on the arm). The platter has magnetic repulsion from the bearing, so friction is extremely low.

Now, properly aligning the cartridge is key. Even the most fantastic TT will not be right without close to perfection in the alignment. So make sure that's right.

The main thing you'll gain will be silence in the grooves and very dynamic, rich presentation of the recording. Isolation is very good, but the improvement you actually see will be contigent upon the location of the table relative to the speakers and how well you isolated the Well Tempered before. NO TT is totally imune to feedback, but the mass of the Pro-ject, combined with its isolation base make it one of the tops in this price class.

Dave
Hey Tiger...How did they let a free ad through. I have to pay 6.00 a crack for mine.
Redcarerra: May I suggest that you challenge your Turntable skills by first understanding ,as completely as possible, the reason(s)the Well Tempered failed to realize its potental in your system/audio room. By learning the key(s), future sucess maybe realized rather a duplication of past issues. I personally feel the Well Tempered products represent are a great value . I would break the TT down and carefully examine its parts to ascertain any weakness with the most usuall suspects ; the platter, the bearing or belt. A complete review of the tonearm and cartridge is also in order. The platform your TT sits on should be examined. A slight adjustment for most 'Tables can change the sound from muck to ear-candy. Should all of this sound too complicated hire an expert or call a nationwide internet TT seller asking them for the name of a local troubleshooter they may contract with in your area. Or, just shove it spend a few more grand and hope your problems dissappear with a new 'Table.