Analog upgrade path for less than $1200

If there is nothing wrong with your SL-1300 and its arm, you might consider getting a better cartridge and phono preamp. If you were thinking of getting a "new" table/arm/cartridge combo for less than $1200 that will beat what you have now it could be tough sledding.

Thanks for your input. Table's still works great. Any specific suggestions on cartridge's and preamp's?

Consider going used for the phonostage, your money will go a lot further. Make a point that your stage and cartridge are an ideal match, not something "that will work together." Think about a 1K budget for the stage and cartridge. That will be a nice compliment to your rig. If you really like how things go, you can move them to another table later.