$5k Upgrade

That's a kickass system man!! I don't have nearly that kind equipment but I feel like you may be moving sideways - but have never heard the champion , it may be on par with the wt. maybe experiment w diff carts?

Thanks PHD, that's what I am trying to figure out and it is a challenge. I have no real issues with my system. I am fairly certain that if I moved up the Shindo pre-amp chain that it would yield improvements and the upper models have MM/MC phono included, so that's an option.

Upgrading the preamp can often yield superior results, but I don't think that can happen for $5K. Have you considered a good power conditioner like the Audience?

With the cavaet that I have not heard your table, I'd give some thought to the following:

1) upgrade your ZYX to a 4D. Mehran at Sorasound may have a trade-up option that you can take advantage of.

2) take a look at a Townshend Rock 7 if you go the the turntable route. I moved from an Amadeus to the Rock 7 with a Rega 301, and even with that modest arm, it was an upgrade.

3) audition, audition, audition. In your home, this may only be possible with a phono stage.

And lastly, knowing what you listen to, or what characteristics of music are important to you will help. For example, one reason I went with the Rock was bass. Very important for me that it is well-reproduced. But others may not have that as a major priority.