The VPI Aries II is an exceptional table. I haven’t heard a Technics in a while but I believe it to be in a completely different league. This is corroborated by an audiophile friend of mine who does have a lot of experience with Technics. I owned an VPI Aries I for a decade.
Hot off the press...Technics SL 1300G
I'm an admirer of the current lineup. Appears to be solid for the price point-$3200?
https://www.technics.com/uk/products/grand-class/turntables/sl-1300g.html
Once a Matt is on that platter, can a reflex clamp be used on that stubby spindle?
What do you DD users do with those less than flat gems found in the bins?