I have reviewed the post and do not see what phono preamp you may be using. Does it have moving coil capability? If it does then in the Ortofon line you have many options at or near your price range. The Quintet group of either the Bronze or Black would be Ortofons current introductory moving coils well within your range. The next step up are the Ortofon Cadenza also in your range (Red, Blue and Bronzed) and with a little reach or dealer negotiation you are not far from the Cadenza Black. I have used both the Bronze (wonderful but slightly on the warmer side of neutral) and the Black which I also love. I have replaced both with the Windfeld Ti and they now sit on the shelf as I debate if I will part with them.
If you love the Ortofon 2M Black, you'll really love...... (help me upgrade)
Still trying to find a new cartridge and I've identified very clearly that I love the sonic signature of the 2m Black but would love something that had overall more of what it does well. With that info is there cartridge anyone would recommend up to 2500?