Need advice on new TT, arm and cartridge.


I think, I'm done with the rest of my system for now, so I can move onto the analog.
Just briefly, my system is Avantgarde Duo Omega G2 speakers,
Lamm ML2 power amps and VAC Signature IIa full function preamp with built-in MM/MC phono stage.
I have a few requirements for the analog set-up, aside from the sound quality:
I want it to be as "not tweaky", as possible. I don't want to spent my time making 17 adjustments every time I want to listen to a record. "Set and forget" is the way, I'd prefer it.
I'm really open to other suggestions. Thank you.
Budget- wise, I would prefer to stay under $10K for the TT, arm and cart.
The big question for me is the sound signature of the different tables, arms and cartridges. I heard multiple analog setups in unfamiliar systems, but none in my own (aside from the KAB Technics Sl 1200+ Shelter 501 MkII, that I used to own.
I've read so much of a debate b/w various drive types- DD, Idler, Belt, but still, I don't have a clear understanding of their respective signature sound.
So far, I have a few candidates:
Belt Drive; TW Raven One,or maybe AC; Basis 2500/2800
DD; Technics SP 10 MkII in various plinths (Dobbins, Porter, etc.) As a matter of fact I have Technics SP10 MkII table sitting in a box, awaiting it's destiny)
Idler: Garrard (again in one of the above mentioned custom plinths).
Even less clear to me are the differences b/w various arms.
I have a following list:
Reed, SME-V, Graham Phantom B-44 MkII, Basis Vector 3/4; Kuzma 4Point,
I want the arm to be compatible with as wide variety of carts, as possible.
And now is the list of possible cartridges:
Lyra Delos /Kleos, Dynavector XV-1S/T, Koetsu?, Benz?
I listen to all kinds of music, and my general preferences of the reproduced sound is toward little more relaxed and natural, but dynamic, vs. hyper detailed and analytical.
maril555
I sold the Technics/SME many years ago, the Grado cartridge wasn't a great one and the rest of my system was early solid state with Technics SB 600 speakers. The SP10 was like a Kenworth tractor with all three speeds. Even so it is only one part of the system. It replaced a Benjamin Miracord so it was a huge improvement.

The TW certainly looks the part but it seems to have it's basis in the motor which is very important. If I'm not mistaken they gloss over the platter bearing that has a tolerance or runout of 100th of a mm. That spells trouble to me. Zero tolerance or magnetic suspension is whats happening today IMO. Couple that with a good motor and you've got something.



... I don't want to spent my time making 17 adjustments every time I want to listen to a record. "Set and forget" is the way, I'd prefer it....

When you are advanced enough to understand what you hear:

Basis/Graham Phantom Supreme/Lyra Delos
Syntax,
I openly admit to being fairly new to analogue, hence my inquiry.
Following your suggestion, could you elaborate as to why you prefer Basis to other belt-drive TW Raven One?
There is a Technics SP10 MkII in Porter plinth with SME 312 S arm for sale now on A-gon- do you have any input with regards to this particular combo?
Thanks
Why I prefer Basis to TW?

Because I don't spend my time making 17 adjustments every time I want to listen to a record.
Hello Maril555,

FYI, I believe that the kind fellow in Dallas that is selling the Porter Plinth/SP-10 Mk ll and SME 312S tonearm has moved to a Micro Seiki/ FR tonearm combo.

I recenty picked up a Graham Phantom Supreme tonearm. As Syntax has mentioned, it is a stellar performer that is really easy to setup and get going, especially with the Graham cartridge alignment accessories that are optimized for the 9" armwand...IMO, you will be well-served with this
tonearm along with the Lyra Delos cartridge, super!

Syntax, follows the Johnny Cash model...he has been everywhere. I believe that the "there are differences model" leads to his recommendation of the Basis turntable for you.

Cheers!