What's next after Clearaudio Concept ?

Since you like the Clearaudio sound, I would look at the Clearaudio Wood or the Innovation Wood that has an upgrade path. Both will accommodate more than one arm too.

VPI classic 2, Well Tempered Labs Amadeus GTA or an upgraded model of Clear Audio like the Champion Series or perfromance series.I think Rega has a few within and around your price range also.

try the VPI classic 2 with a dynavector 20X2 L. The combination is around the 3K mark.

I suggest Lyra Delos and Sim Audio lp310, and keep the TT. This should, with suitable discount, come in very close to your budget. Better still the lp 5.3 comes up second hand fairly frequently, and is the "exact" same circuit as the 310. I really think you will get more benefit by directing your funds at the cartridge and phono, and next would be arm, and then finally a new TT.

prcinka, Speaking of Garrard 301, there is a Lenco L75 I can get my hands on. Any idea if a stock Lenco will beat the Clearaudio Concept (CC)?

Vinylmad, I was thinking maybe Rega RP8, but from the responses, think VPI seems to be recommended brand to go for next. How would you compare Rp8 to a classic 2.

Dinster, you have a good point, will be upgrading from EAR 834P to Coincident Statment Phono stage soon. But do you think the CC is good enough to hold its own with a Lyra Delos ($1650, more expensive than the CC at $1400).