Need advice for upgrading my analog setup

Concur and amplify the focus on the phono preamp then preamp first. My personal philosophy is that average turntables with good isolation is all that’s needed (It’s simply a level rotating plane - that’s all) - focus on the cartridge. Think Rega RP8 not 10.  Pro-ject higher model  from the Evo would do. 
 

I’ll diverge on constant upgrading of the phono stage though. Get a quality adjustable one with two inputs and call it good. I might upgrade one day long in the future - gold note ph-10 is absolutely amazing with XLR outs and the equalization (RIAA, Decca, Columbia) options are simply now table stakes for me. Applying the proper output equalization has such a meaningful impact it would take an article to elaborate. 

I can't speak to the arm and cart but the SOTA is a great TT, I've had mine for over 20 years. I did upgrade it to the magnetic bearing and new control board recently and it's better than ever .

@chocaholic you've obviously not listened to the difference between a $500 phono and a $2-$3k phono if you're recommending someone to stay with what they have. Especially when they're moving up the ranks big time from an entry level table. 

In all honesty @thefrator my phonostage and turntables have been my best and most enjoyable upgrade. Phonos definitely need not be insanely expensive but the Musical Surroundings recommended above is great advise. Or hunt for a used Manley Chinook. Haven't heard SOTA or the Soundsmith, but I've gone through a few upgrades of tables, carts and phonos and you're in for a treat. 

@j-wall Mr. jaywall, I’ll have to respectfully disagree with your incorrect assumption. What my experience tells me is that a price tag is not an upgrade criteria. Rather, the perceived SQ and enjoyment in your own listening room is far more logical. The OP likes and is happy with his phononstage. Whether he chooses to upgrade will depend on his experience with his new ‘table. But it should not be because he simply hasn’t spent enough money on his phono section. That is just ridiculous.

@chocaholic you're sorely mistaken if you think a $500 phonostage will deliver the capabilities of $1,500 cartridge. That phonostage is entirely built to budget, which is fine for those with bare bones entry level gear that don't want to spend the dollars. But this gentleman is looking to upgrade for better sound, so your entirely baseless and incorrect assumption that he doesn't need to upgrade his phonostage (when he's already asked for phonostage advice) isn't helpful. And he definitely should upgrade. Phonostages do wonders!