Best Analog for $10K

*timo62*
That's the problem I have. I live in rural Wyoming. The closest audio stores are about 5 hours away in Denver. I've built an entire audio system by reading audio reviews or recommendations, making a short list, and trying to listen to some of those components at dealers or audio shows. Then I try to purchase items I'm interested in, either as used or dealer demos. I might bring in three DACs or amplifiers, listen to them in my own system for a month or two, and keep the components I love. I can usually resell the rest and not get stung too badly. I'm a little afraid of moving turntables around, as they seem more delicate than other gear.

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.