Inexpensive arm for bedroom table- Linn, AQ etc?

I'm looking for a tonearm for a Merrill modified AR XB that I'll be using in my B system. It has a Linn armbaord and I'm looking for something that will fit without any modification.

I can't spend more than $250.

I'm borrowing a Linn Basik LV X for a couple weeks until I can get my own arm. The Basik is of course pretty mediocre. Would an Audioquest PT-6 be a lateral move from the Basik, or would it me an improvement? What else could I look for given the modest budget and Linn armboard? Alphason, Helius, Linn Akito/Akito2? How do any of these compare?

I'll be using MM carts- initially a Shure M97xE -and FWIW the AR has a number of Merrill mods: subplinth, acrylic platter and lead mat, bearing, outer plinth, BDRcones off the top of my head.

Any advice is appreciated!