Some Advice

In all modesty you should look at (my) Ruby 3 S on A'gon
auction. I am sure Syntax will say: Amen!

Thank you I am truly enjoying reading all of these posts I am still new to the world of vinal. I got my first and only TT about 16 months ago the music hall mmf-7 and about two months ago I took my CD player out of my system. I am done with shiny round disks. Keep the advice coming, and thanks.

You should listen/look into the Benz range too.

Check out the soundsmith line as well. The sussuro looks like a very nice cart. The zephyr is said to be a very good match on vpi arms as well. Very good customer service too.

Hi. Fellow Soul Superfly and former VPI TNT owner. The Lyra's have worked well with VPI turntables. Their tendency to be on the cool side mated well with warm sound of the VPI's. The Classic is far more neutral then previous VPI's but the current Lyra are less cool so the nice balance remains.
I will second the Soundsmith recommendation. Had a chance to hear the Hyperion at RMAF and thought it was the best analog I heard. The Hyperion ($7500) is out of your price range but the Sussuro Paua is right there and would be a great match for the VPI arm.
I would also suggest looking at the Miyajimi Kansui.
Lastly, if you haven't upgraded the Superfly to the Nano driver would strongly recommend the upgrade. A significant jump in sound for $400 ($600-$200 refund after you send back the old drivers)
Good luck with your choice.