Thanks will check out the tonearm pods. I wouldn’t exactly call it cheap at $7k with tonearm and shipping. I have a VPI Classic 3 for almost 10 year and love it except for the ability to use multiple arms. It sucks that TT manufacturers have to charge over $10k (closer to $20k) if you want more than one tonearm. SAM is a small shop that sells direct and has been making audio equipment for over 30 years.
Unfortunately, you can’t demo these anywhere, so I’ve had to go by the feedback and looking at owners’ systems which is all very positive. Yes, the platter uses MDF along with copper and aluminum, but my VPI also has a lot of MDF in it ;-)
Any case, mine will arrive by the new year and I will post a video of the unboxing, assembly and a few sound samples. I assure you I didn’t buy it for looks, I'd just rather put the money toward a nicer tonearm and MC cartridge than buying an over priced table.