End Game Turntable suggestions


Hello all, looking for insights to help me narrow down to some core choices; I am open to new or preowned. My system details can be seen under my profile.

In summary I have significantly expanded my vinyl collection and as of now I am looking to purchase an end game turntable appropriate for my setup. As you can see I use Mola Mola Kaluga Monos, and I really like the Zesto Pre and Phonostages. I find the class D/tube pre combination very pleasing. 

I would appreciate suggestions for around $5-8K (table + arm), new or used. I will have separate budget for cartridge. One preferred option (but not must-have) is universal voltage, as I may move the unit to Europe later. My current vintage turntable (Project Perspective) is 22 years old, and while I don't know how to compare to something really amazing, I can say that my setup is lacking detail and bass. The tonearm is terrible to keep aligned. Based on visits to Axpona and Cap Audio Fest and other research, I am thinking of a few in my budget, but will really value your suggestions of other brands:

- Origin Live Sovereign

- VPI Signature

- SAM Sinner

- Thorens TD 1601 (semi automatic)

Visual appeal is important to me (which is why Technics 1200 is not on my list despite great reviews everywhere). I love the idea of set it and forget it DD tables, but unfortunately mostly out of my budget (eg VPI HW-40 going for abt 11K used)....

Sorry for the long post but my hope is this background and help solicit good suggestions. Thanks

 

musicmatters1206

@terry9 You have been investigative with your usage of P'holz. The venture into the unknown has certainly delivered and the good impression made from the use of the material is once more out there to be seen.

I added a info in a previous post that was a mistake, in relation to a Densified Wood the individual was keen to try out who I encouraged to produce an Arm Wand.

I stated Pico Wood, this is a Company in Spain that does a Phenolic Densified Wood.

Now I have seen how investigative you are, I am off the view the wood I should have stated may have an appeal. The following will give a Good Description for your pondering.

The Link is the Brand of Densified Wood I should have stated for an alternative Densified Wood Arm Wand Material.

 

 

Well Tempered Reference would be the best sounding option. Basis Ovation has the best look/sound ratio.

Post removed 

Consider the Merrill-Williams REAL. A number of dealers were using them to demo their equipment at AXPONA and it sounded very detailed and tuneful. You might also look at Clearaudio and Acoustic Signature. 

Dealers may have stock of the Merrill but the table is discontinued. The 101.4 was announced but as far as I know never released