Audio Technica AT-ART1000X

There are probably many ways to spend $5500+ on "upgrading" LP performance on the OP’s Technics 1300G.

I’d go ART 20 and perhaps use the rest in a future upgrade of a next level phonostage.

The ART 20 likely isn’t THAT far off in performance(relative to the OP’s existing hardware) with the ART 1000? 

OP’s phonostage is good and gets solid Stereophile review, but we all know there’s always something better. Lejonklou Entity phono preamplifier | Stereophile.com

Once that’s in place, the OP can save for the SP -10-RE-S, a nice arm, THEN get the ART 1000!

Thank you everyone for your constructive posts. Right now my first imparative is to retip my Dynavector XXII MK II so I can exercise my new analog chain, however, my next major investment is to upgrade my Auralic Vega (13 years old) to a LTA Aero dac. Once done, I‘ll be back to the analog chain meaning another cart taking into consideration my Lejonklou Entity. Fun stuff and thanks again for the support

OP…you have some great thoughts and excellent equipment. 
 

I agree with Lewm. Why should we box ourselves into a corner whenever we are trying to decide cost performance ratio and expenditures for our equipment. I don’t buy into that “you should only spend X amount for this equipment when the other equipment costs X mount”. Now, of course, the rationale for expenditures is a personal matter depending on individual situations, budgets, synergy, etc. 

All I can say, is why can’t we embrace modding our systems the same we mod our muscle or sports cars? No one ever says well, you should spend X amount for exhaust, titanium for example, or headers, air intakes, carbon fiber, wheels, tires, etc.

In the end, it’s about delivery and execution and one’s own personal satisfaction. When rolling into a cars and coffee with new carbon brakes and wheels on older sports car, people are more apt to say “wow, wool”, and so I think it should be the same with the audio hobby. Test limits or think outside the box to satisfy your our interests. Have fun and enjoy the musical roller coaster.