Where's the next weak link in my analog chain?

MC cart in the $1k+ range.

I would want a tonearm with removable headshell, to pre-mount a few cartridges, including Mono. Arm height adjustment is important.

@elliottbnewcombjr This is all for more involved than I ever plan to get. Multiple carts, multiple arms, etc etc. Not my style. I want one set up that I can pour all of my funds and focus into, and then enjoy for long periods of time. 

@jafox 

What is the rest of your system?  Do you use exclusively phono or also spend much time with a digital source?

I specifically focused on the analog side because we're in the analog forum, it's more used than my digital, and it's where I have the most interest in spending my cash. I have been considering other new components, but I've decided to focus on sources first starting at the analog side. I also have a much better idea of what I want for the other elements, so if I see a deal I can't pass up on a piece I know I want, I would make the jump and prolong the analog updates. But it would need to be exactly what I want. No need for us to chase down that rabbit hole in this thread, but I may do the same type of thread in the digital forum in a year or two. 

What is missing from your musical enjoyment that you are looking to address? 

I believe I can achieve more detail, and a little more bottom end impact. Top end extension and imaging are very satisfying currently. 

My experience for nearly 30 years has shown time and time again that the most critical cable link in the system is the IC between line stage and amp.

I've had some friends lend me cables to experiment with, and I don't disagree with you. It's on my radar. Maybe I should bump it up the list. 

You have a lot invested in the AQ Thunder PC, and driving the TT motor I assume.  Why?

I already had a AQ Hurricane on my streamer/dac. A friend suggested that I try it on the TT, and I expected to have zero impact. I was wrong, and it made a very significant improvement. I tested this several times both alone and with friends over a few months, because that really wasn't where I wanted to spend the cash. However, I couldn't deny the results but I decided I would see if the Thunder would get the job done. Found a deal on a Thunder, very satisfied with the results. 

Have you tried this PC into the phono stage or line stage?

Already have an AQ Hurricane on the integrated amp and the dac. I was lucky enough to have the luxury to try these items in my system before investing in them. I have not yet tried it on the phono because I just got the linear power supply for it. I plan to test that in the future once I'm more familiar with the impact from the LPS on it's own. 

keep your eyes out for the Cardas Golden Cross...

Silver Audio Silver Breeze phono cable

Thank you, I'll add these to the list of considerations. I've given Cardas special consideration for the TT to phono because I know the Mofi uses Cardas wiring in the tonearm already. 

Really appreciate the detailed and thoughtful response! 

@displayname - nice rig, shows careful choices.

As you’ve discovered, better cables would help.  Consider the new Shunyata Theta line - high performance/price - TAS 2025 Product if the Year.

It would take considerable funds to upgrade turntable + arm.  Maybe next best move is try another cartridge- can always use on next turntable.

Your phono preamp is a strong link- good enough for end game unless you want to explore a tube phono.

Good luck and happy spinning!

@kennyc 

Your phono preamp is a strong link- good enough for end game unless you want to explore a tube phono.

Funny you should say that. I was strongly considering selling the 20/20 to get a Chinook SE while they are on clearance. I haven’t even heard one before, but the curiosity almost got the best of me.