I agree with @dover ’s suggestions: turntable first, tonearm second, phono stage third, cartridge fourth. I went the other way once, against expert advice, to my cost.
The TT’s job is to turn a record silently. That means a first class bearing. Air is best. If you can’t do that, consider a Tom Fletcher design, like Nottingham Analogue (used is good but rarely available). I have one and it is not disgraced in the company of my DIY cost-no-object air bearing. The suspension in a suspended table costs. Don’t pay for it unless you need it. I live far from highways and my TT sits on bedrock, so I don’t need a suspension. YMMV
The tonearm’s job is to move quietly and precisely across the record. Again, air is best. The best bargain in high end is the Transfi Terminator at about $1000, for a hybrid air/mechanical pivot. They are highly adjustable (VERY important), and keep their settings. I use two of them.
The phono stage’s job is to shape and amplify the signal. Might try a used Audio Research here, and upgrade after everything else is perfect.
Cartridges wear out, are easily damaged, and sometimes break. TT, tonearms, phono stages don’t. Cartridges are therefore a rapidly sinking investment. Finally, cartridges have more influence on the sound than anything else, but pricier does not mean better, because your ears are part of the equation. Live with several cheap cartridges to decide what you like: bright or lush, etc. etc. You can always upgrade. If you throw away a few, not much lost.
Cables: $25 max until you are set up and comfortable. Then let any improvement, be it phono stage or cables, prove itself in your system before you buy.
IMO
Good luck!!!!
