New TT -- $1k - $1500

FWIW, there is a Sota Sapphire that just popped up here from a guy in Toronto with a number of updates at the low end of your range.  That leaves enough room left over for both a new arm and cartridge if desired.  I have been totally satisfied with mine for 30+ years and strongly suggest you consider it.  I feel it is a far more musical table than either Rega or Technics.  Note I moved from a Rega Planar 2 (way back in the day) to the Sota, so have A-B experience in my own home there.  Sota tables can also be upgraded in any number of ways for reasonable money when the mood strikes.

Good luck & happy listening!

http://www.sotaturntables.com/newtables/comet.htm

This is a nice one within your budget!

Tone Publications review of SL-1200 with SME tonearm and other upgrades here:

http://www.tonepublications.com/analogaholic/sl-1200-upgrades-sound-hifi/

effisher:  thanks for the hup - i contacted george and we're exchanging emails.  I haven't looked at SOTA tables before - mainly rega and VPI.  
Rega: Many dealers carry them
VPI: Nice clean looks

SOTA looks very good too!  Very few complaints online (whereas Rega and VPI have their share!). 

Regarding 1200 upgrades: The KAB level of upgrades is where i'm at financially.  Seems to be the best bang for the buck *and* provides the most benefit.  Though, the tonepublications article is down on these mods, when comparing them to a $2k tonearm...  not sure that's a fair comparison.  

I actually found someone local who can service / rewire the tonearm on the 1200.  This was my biggest hurdle.  Plus, they can go through it and fix up anything that needs attention.  The biggest thing that I want to make sure is the tonearm bearing.  All the tests i've done seem to pass, but i'm not sure if i'm doing them right.  

So, with tonearm rewire, at150mlx cart +SumitkoHS12 (i have this on hand), tonearm fluid dampening i'm in for about $500 (labor included).  

martinman, where are you local to?