Sumiko BPS Evo III vs Hana EL/EH

You haven’t mentioned what phono stage you are using, but if it has sufficient gain, then I would agree with the idea that the Hana SL is most likely superior to any other cartridge mentioned in this thread. I candidly admit that I am not a big fan of the Bluepoint special.

My phono pre is a Sutherland Ph3d. I didn't realize there was a Technics in my price range. I thought the $1800 one was their entry point, so I'll look into the less expensive one that was mentioned. My preference was to buy and support local (dealer has Project, Rega, Mofi, EAT, VPI). I won't rule out mail order though. I'd be a bit nervous about mounting a cartridge myself.

The 1200GR (1210 is black) is around $1800. The 1500C is in your price range but do not get it. Get the more expensive one. You’ll be all set for years. If you get the MoFi or 1500C, you’ll still be on the upgrade path in a year and kicking yourself. Save bucks by hanging on to the BPS for a while. YOLO. Nice to support local dealers but at the end of the day, it’s your trip.

I didn't realize there was a Technics in my price range. I thought the $1800 one was their entry point, so I'll look into the less expensive one that was mentioned.

Technics SL1200GR is definitely not entry level compared to Rega and MoFi (they are entry level for sure but for very high price for a belt drive).

I'm pretty sure you can find a dealer of Technics. This turntable has bulletproof packaging and build like a tank, place online order from US dealers and you will get it quick. 

Face a similar decision. I have a 2-year-old Pro-Ject 9.2 with the 9cc tonearm. It came with the BPS Evo III (low). Candidly, it is my first serious hi-fi so I'm not sure what I'm missing and if I can do better - and it does seem like the BPS is fussy when it comes to slightly poor pressings/dust....  I have been mulling a range of options from the Hana EL $475 to to Hana SL $750 to Clearaudio Concept $1000 

This goes into a Tavish Vintage phono, then to a Jolida 3502S integrated