A suggestion: If it's density and stability is what you seek, you might try stone.
My shop (not audio, sorry) is next to a countertop firm. They generate an enormous amount of 'drops' from their projects, many suitable in size for any tt/arm combo. If you can generate a drawing showing what you want, they can make it.
And with the range of choices in material, pattern, and colors you could make something really exquisite for about what you'd spend on a wood one. Not that wood isn't lovely, but...
My shop (not audio, sorry) is next to a countertop firm. They generate an enormous amount of 'drops' from their projects, many suitable in size for any tt/arm combo. If you can generate a drawing showing what you want, they can make it.
And with the range of choices in material, pattern, and colors you could make something really exquisite for about what you'd spend on a wood one. Not that wood isn't lovely, but...