Your system doesn't show a Record Cleaner...so I would vote for a record cleaner first and then you might consider the magnetic bearing upgrade for your Clearaudio Table.
I'm not sure you're going to get a big upgrade from the Origin for $1K. Perhaps a used Graham?
However, you could get a BIG sonic upgrade by moving to a better cartridge. There are plenty of candidates at $1K, but I'd personally buy one new rather than used.
I spent on a killer cartridge. I consider it money well spent. BUT the arm must be of reasonable quality: correct static and inertial mass, very easy motions around pivot(s). It becomes a bit of a black art. Example: I was strongly dissuaded from mounting a Helikon on a Dual. This from a guy who sells Helikons. (Helika?) cheers apo
Normally I would say, the Cartridge but when I really think about it, the Tonearm is the way to go. I have MUCH more Satisfaction when I listen with a DaVinci tonearm (for example) and a modified Denon 103R (Shibui) than with a -former- Roksan Tabriz and a Lyra Parnassus ....
Yes, I would go for a first class tonearm after all my years ..
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.