recommendations for TT + arm + cart, around $3.5k

Kuzma Stabi S package w/table, arm goes for about $3200, I think. Lots of great carts have been mentioned here so far.

I bought a VPI aries 1 with sds speed control jmw 10 arm, upgraded motor and original platter for $2500. The Kuzma Stabi S was and still is a temptation. While I would have a hard time buying a "new" audio product the vpi classic which I haven't heard looks great. I bought the aries on audiogon, I was looking online at one from audio classics in binghamton ny for $2300. I had owned a linn lp12 with rega rb300 tonearm which I really liked but didn't like the maintenance and set-up interface and didn't want to put money into the upgrades. My only other table was a rega p3. I have to admit I am a sucker for any table that has a modular upgrade path like the vpi tables. So my experience is limited but I have been very with the vpi aries

I've got the 1027be's. Running Sim Audio amplification and phono stage using balanced interconnects. TT is Kuzma Stabi with Stogi S arm, cart is Clearaudio Maestro Wood (MM). Great synergy, plenty of dynamics, soundstage and some sweet mids. Not the last word in detail but not a bad thing with the beryllium tweeters on the 1027be's. Kuzma TT is excellent value for money with great engineering and a sexy look (is TT love indecent??).

I received my Classic today, installed a Sumiko Blackbird cart, and running it through a new PS Audio GCPH - have to say that it sounds night and day better than my previous setup with the P1 and PP-2. I mean, not a little bit better but totally different and wonderful - I've been spinning vinyl all night all having a blast! I'm sure my setup is far from optimal, and I'll figure that out eventually, but I'm very happy right now! Thanks all for the input. A new table and phono pre was the right way to go.

Justin

Recently upgraded my cartridge to a Dynavector XX2 MKII. What an amazing cartridge. Everything is better than the Benz Glider, as it should be considering price (not that the Benz was bad). Bass is quicker, tighter and deeper. Treble is airier and crisper. Midrange is natural. Music sounds more like the real thing (live music).