Cartridge to turntable price ratio

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.

These “proper” cost ratio questions are…. tedious.