Ouch not a VPI.
Unless you want a new TT or the smaller footprint of the SME, I would recommend getting the SOTA serviced and upgraded - it is still a great deck, more than competitive today.
Similarly with the SME IV.VI - if you are worried, SME can do a full service, including checking the bearings, rewire with updated wire etc. Their servicing is usually very very good, new packaging etc included - I have also seen them replace arm tubes simply because the paint was tatty.
Put the extra cash into a really nice cartridge and or phono stage.
There have been more advances in phono stages in the last 10-15 years than any of the other items.