Based on your stated preference, I would go with the VPI and AQ arm combo. Listening sessions with these combinations leads me to believe this would produce the sound closest to what you describe.
The Linn and Basis combos you list are fairly warm sounding in the mid and mid bass, so probably not as lean was you might like.
The Rega is very smooth in the extremes, and therefore will probably not produce the "sharp highs" you seem to be seeking.
The cartridge you choose will play an equal or greater role in this tonal balance game, but since you ask only about the TT arm combo, this is my best guess. If I were making this choice from the listed products, I would buy the Basis with RB300, or even better, a Basis with a Graham arm (even a very old one).
The Linn and Basis combos you list are fairly warm sounding in the mid and mid bass, so probably not as lean was you might like.
The Rega is very smooth in the extremes, and therefore will probably not produce the "sharp highs" you seem to be seeking.
The cartridge you choose will play an equal or greater role in this tonal balance game, but since you ask only about the TT arm combo, this is my best guess. If I were making this choice from the listed products, I would buy the Basis with RB300, or even better, a Basis with a Graham arm (even a very old one).