Next step in a turntable upgrade path

Nice inviting room and cool Marantz 8b.

"I'm looking for something better as a base, and with more of an upgrade path."

With that in mind, I'd also include a tube phonostage. Schiit Mani is great for what it is, but you're ready to invest in gear to  hear what the fuss is all about. 

Prepare for an onslaught of sensible and unrelated  responses.

A used VPI can go far, with some research.

Thank you for the suggestion and for the comment on my room/system. I'll take a look at the VPI and the tube phone pre👍🏻

SOTA turntables. Might be out of your price range but you can sometimes find them used. Made in WI.

And Decware phone stage. Made in IL.

I have both and love them.

Also Blue Jean cables. I think made in OR? Not sure but US made.