Cartridge to turntable price ratio

I have heard wide variations in ratios. I think it would not be unusual for a $2.5 K table to have a $1K cartridge… but a $2K cartridge would probably sound much better. So I would think 20% to 50% for modest turntables.

However, at some point you have a “audiophile grade” table, something of very high quality with all aspects of performance in the exceptional category… say greater than $7K or $8K? … I’m not sure exactly… but these should support much better cartridges… more than the value of the table. I know of a member running a $20K cartridge on an ~ $8K TT and it sounds simply spectacular. So, I think there is a lot more flexibility with high end tables.

My two primary tables cost $3000 and $1900 each (quality used vintage tables).  One has a Umami Red ($4000) the other has a Sound Smith Paua ($4000) and a Sound Smith MIMC* mono ($2300).They replaced a Hana ML and a Dynavector 10x5. Both were significant upgrades, not just in price, but performance as well, so I have no problem with a cartridge that cost double the price of the turntable. Personally, I think the point of diminishing returns effects the turntable before it does the cartridge.

Personally, I think the point of diminishing returns effects the turntable before it does the cartridge.

I agree, just don't put a $5000 cart on a $300 table. 

Better cartridges are always a plus with any well designed modern turntable and price is no indication. I would feel perfectly comfortable putting a Lyra Atlas in a Thorens TD 1600. However, it also depends on the rest of the system and again price is no indication. Most important is a high definition loudspeaker. Some speakers can appreciate the difference a cartridge makes and some can not. 

Depending on your system, Don't forget the tonearm's possible influence.