Best sounding turntable and cartridge for $1100

Sunny, I own a Blue Point No. 2 cartridge which has no more than 30 hrs on it. I went to the dark side and now source primarily digital. I am going to put this cartridge up for sale here on AG. I will inspect it under my dissecting scope to insure it is like new, as I am confident it is. I will try and get my add up in the next couple days. If interested and you get to the add just send me a private message. We can discuss any concerns at that time.

Sunny, It just might be that the BP NO.2 might also sound too bright to you though tamed over the original Blue Point which I also owned several years ago. I had the original while owning B&K ST-140 amp and Pro 10 pre feeding a early pair of Vandersteen model 2s. It was mounted on a Sonograph SG-3 with MMT tonearm (which I still own). In that system I enjoyed the original BP.

RE my NO.2, I have not played vinyl enough lately such that it is probably not yet broken in, nor have I compared it to any other cartridge. I consider it a lively, dynamic cartridge and far more enjoyable to a Grado Gold MM cartridge ($220) I tried prior to purchasing the BP. My main reason for selling it is that I don't use my turntable ( not once in last 18 months) as I thought I would when I purchased it. I will be looking for a less expensive cartridge to replace it for use of the TT in a second system. 

If I was buying a TT system today I would buy the best TT/tonearm/cartridge combination that my budget would allow with focus on the TT/tonearm, with a cartridge that satisfies however not occupying a large fraction of the budget. Cartridges can be more easily replaced and need to be compatible with the phonostage used. 

If you remain interested in the BP No. 2, I am going to list mine here on AG today. Feel free to send me a private message via my add, we may be able to work something out. 

Good luck in your quest, whatever you choose.

Sunny, my SG-3 was purchased in 1983 and the original version as manufactured by the Portland Oregon company prior to Conrad Johnson buying out Sonograph. I purchased it from a dealer friend of mine after the Portland Co. failed. I believe the cost of production on that TT exceeded it's $400 asking price. 

I remain curious as to the sonic value of this TT/arm combination compared to the sub $1000 tables offered today.

Thanks for your post schism. I intend to pass my SG-3 on to one of my kids. 

Sunny, I had a dealer friend sell me mine highly discounted. One of the best audio buys I have made, especially given cost and 'time in grade'.

Glad to hear your journey has ended. Please let us know what you think after you have some experience with your new TT.