Turntable - The Next Step

Recent experience.  I have a Linn Lp12 with Kore, Cirkus and an Ekos 1 with sticky dial issue.  It sounds wonderful, in tune now for almost 2 years. I spend alot of time on setup.  I was using the old vintage tonearm cable as the sound was excellent saw no reason to change.  

While at my local dealer saw a trade in Revelation DIN cable at a decent price. Purchased it.  I can only say change of cable made such a noticeable difference.  i am a believer in cable effects and have several upgrade cables.  But I wasnt expecting the magnitude of the difference the cable made.

Thats something you might want to try.

I have been into high end audio for 50 years, turntables at the beginning were the only source. Looking at your system I would say your weakest link likely to be your preamp/phono stage. These two components are critical in getting the most out of your turntable. Looking at your TT / cartridge… I would put all the funds you can into a high end preamp and phono stage, go for used at $2,000. More would be better. This should get you to the next level. 

@infection : Unsure as to the specific tonearm. It is original to the TT purchased about 6 years ago.

I would suggest saving a little more or increase your budget and get a Linn LP12.  You won’t have to upgrade in 3-4 years.  

How about:

1) Hagerman Trumpet MC phono stage

2) AT33PTGII  cartridge

3) Technics 1200GR

I have the above with the only difference being a Technics 1200G.

This is a great combo...goosebumps on great recordings.

Please don't listen to the nonsense about removable headahells. It's so wonderful to be able to fine tune azimuth and have a bunch of cartridges on headahells at the ready.