Better than the Project Carbon TT for $ 500.00


I sold my Rega P3-24 and Ortofon. I have remaining about 18 favorite LPs, and don't expect to buy more. I was recommended the Project Carbon T/T with Ortofon 2M Red cartridge to occasionally play the few LPs I have left and are in decent condition The Project Carbon is currently on sale by few internet dealer for $399.00

I am curious that for $100-$150 more what would you recommend for a table/cartridge package or separate table and cartridge that would be a step up from the Project Carbon. Really would prefer to stay at $500.00, but am open to suggestion. Please no black bases and plinths!!

BTW, I realize there may not be a step-up from the Project for so little money. Thanks
sunnyjim
I didn't understand your issue with black. Is it an offensive color? Is black the epitome of bad taste or ???
I agree with the others -- 18 albums, just get out of analog it's more trouble, than worth at this point.
If I were to buy a table at $500, I would get a vintage Thorens or AR. Either would likely sound better than a current sub %500 table, & they look cool too.
Why not just rip those remaining 18 LPs down to digital and create CDs? No need for a table (given your initial statement).
Let me see if I can quickly address those responses which I appreciate.

I have thought about getting out of analog altogether, and that just may happen. The reason I sold the Rega is I like the offer I got for everything: table, speed controller, and Ortofon

My phone stage is an MM built into the Rogue Sphinx integrated. It sounds nice but could use a bit more gain for high output MC's

Unless it is glossy black, for me black is dull and reminds of a graveyard. In addition many TT brands on the market have an array of attractive color, even Rega. I prefer red

Bpoletti .Good idea, but I would have to get a table with a USB output to transfer the LP's to my computer to rip and burn.....OR AM I MISSING SOMETHING ABOUT TRANSFERS. I don't want to buy an inexpensive table to transfer the LP's, and then have to sell it Plus, I want the copies to sound decent. Please advise if there is another way TO DO IT. I still have the Rega P3-24 but it has NO USB output Thanks,guys