Dodgealum,
I am actually advocating spending much less than $3K on your current analog particularly considering your goals many or all of which can be better realized simply through better cartridge alignment. Alignment by two null points is effective and quick but it will not give you everything of which your cartridge is capable. A Feickert or Mint Protractor which enables you to make alignment along a full arc from the leading edge of an LP to the inside grooves plus the null points will be an enlightening experience to you. The VPI Motor Controller will also be a big step forward. Your shelf is fine. A record cleaning machine and effective cleaning fluid and brush are equally important. I don't know much about your VPI RCA cables but there are endless numbers out there made by companies specializing in that field. I suggest you use The Cable Company as your source to try these at very little or no cost to you. Only after you have optimized your current system would I advocate spending more on a cartridge or a new phono section.
I am actually advocating spending much less than $3K on your current analog particularly considering your goals many or all of which can be better realized simply through better cartridge alignment. Alignment by two null points is effective and quick but it will not give you everything of which your cartridge is capable. A Feickert or Mint Protractor which enables you to make alignment along a full arc from the leading edge of an LP to the inside grooves plus the null points will be an enlightening experience to you. The VPI Motor Controller will also be a big step forward. Your shelf is fine. A record cleaning machine and effective cleaning fluid and brush are equally important. I don't know much about your VPI RCA cables but there are endless numbers out there made by companies specializing in that field. I suggest you use The Cable Company as your source to try these at very little or no cost to you. Only after you have optimized your current system would I advocate spending more on a cartridge or a new phono section.