Given the significant chunk of change you are considering spending, a trip to a dealer with a variety of tables set up or to a show like RMAF next month would be worthwhile.
I second Swampwalker's suggestions - there are several major turntable manufacturers in the Denver area (Teres, Galibier) and you can check out all offerings from other manufacturers at the show. No better time to visit Denver (and you can enjoy the beautiful Fall colours in the area at this time).
Otherwise I agree with everyone else, some feedback and more input would help refine the question. There are many excellent tables in your price range: Galibier, Teres, DPS, TW Acustic, Verdier, Nottingham, VPI, vintage tables, but all these go in very different directions.