New TT, Arm and MC Cartridge

Sorry for your loss, but I think that your response is splendid.

I use the TransFi Terminator tonearm, a hybrid air bearing / mechanical pivot linear tracker. At $1000 or so it's the best value in high end - I don't think you can buy a better one for less than the price of a new car. The best thing about it is its adjustability, which is the only way to get the best out of any cartridge.

Actually, I use two of them - one on a Nottingham Analogue upgraded to Dais specification for Mono (Mayajima Zero), and a DIY air bearing monster (Koetsu Patinum).

Good luck!

The key to a successful life is learning how to have fun in spite of it and that is exactly what you are doing and I am sure your wife would be proud. 

Good choice as long as you have a good sturdy place to plant it. Stick with the Satisfy Kardan arm. I owned a Talisman V2. It is a bit on the bright side especially when new but it is an excellent tracker. It will smooth out after a few hours but will always sound a little thin. If you have high frequency hearing loss this may be an advantage. This is a good cartridge for classical and acoustic music. The cantilever hanging out in the breeze always makes me a little nervous. If you are a Rock and/or Jazz fan the Charisma is a better choice. It has the detail of a moving coil cartridge with unmatched bass and slam. This cartridge's dynamic performance is awe inspiring. It is also high output so you get a better signal to noise ratio. The cantilever is also nicely tucked away where clumsy fingers can't get to it:-)

I think you have the right idea in buying from a dealer you have a good relationship with.  Let them set it up in your home and deal with any issues that come up later.  Definitely less choices, but also less headaches if something goes wrong.  

My condolences and respect. You have the best possible attitude I can think of.

I am not familiar with the equipment you chose. When I was in the market to replace my VIP, I think the memory of the legendary Linn came to mind for me. Research showed it’s performance was of the caliber I was looking. So now, I own a Linn. I do not fiddle and have a great relationship with my audio guy who does all the fiddling. He loves it. He has taken all the classes from Linn. He comes over and sets it up. He knows exactly what it should sound like and makes sure it does.

Gentleman (and Ladies if any responded) I accept and appreciate all the condolences.  I feel sure I will get through this.  I just don't know when.
The various responses informed me and also raised important questions. 
Millercarbon wrote, " If you like the Clearaudio sound then it is a good choice. Simple as that. "  What do you mean by the "Clearaudio Sound?
"Good choice as long as you have a good sturdy place to plant it  " My turntable stand is an approximately 22" diameter section of well seasoned white oak log 15" high standing on a brick hearth also 15" high.  I believe he hearth is planted in the ground though I am not positive of that.
"The cantilever hanging out in the breeze always makes me a little nervous."WHAT THE HELL WAS I THINKING"  I have a serious vision deficiency. I have been  legally blind in my right eye since 1977 and in the last six years my sighted eye has twice required SOTA retina surgery to retain my vision.  In the past I have slaughtered a Stanton 681ee, Shinon Red Boron and Sumiko Blue Point Special by breaking off the stylus.  I haven't broken off a stylus in the last decade by being ultra careful, but the Clearaudio Talisman is akin to a death wish.  I suppose I got carried away by descriptions of its SQ.
Do any of you know how compatible the Audio Technica ART 9xi might be with the with the Clearaudio TT and arm(s) I've mentioned.