Need help with a forced downgrade

I’d sell the 2M Black and PS1 and keep the table. Neither will make a $600 TT sound great. In the meantime go with a less expensive cart (like a Denon DL-103) used for less than $200 and a Schiit Mani for $129 new until you have funds to invest back into your analog rig.

Maybe this suggestion doesn't yield enough funds compared to selling the VPI?  Understood if that's the case.

Get the Pioneer direct drive for around the price mentioned. 

Schiit Sol and Mani. The Pioneer PLX1000 is worth a shot too.

I have a guy locally that has a Technics SL1200 M3d and a SL1700MKII. Both look to be in near mint condition. He is asking  $500 for the 1200 and $350 for the 1700. If I understand they have the same arm and motor. The difference is the 1700 is suspended and semi auto otherwise essentially the same? Would a 2M Black be a good match or ditch it for a cart that matches the arm better. My PS1 is MM only. I could also dich the PS1 for an inexpensive MM/MC phono.

Get the 1200 - a classic and better resale value. Don't buy until you sell the VPI. You could be left with both.

Used P3 and call it a day...