Turntable prices. Is my mind going?

In 2006, I had already owned a highly modified SME IV ($1100 in 1989) and wanted to upgrade from my VPI 19-4 (bought in 1982/all upgrades after).  So, I purchased a VPI TNT (upgraded platter).  It REQUIRED a Townshend Sesimic SInk due to terrible vibration problems.  I've gone through about a dozen cartridges in 35 years.  Three friends and I own Dynavectors on very different TTs.  I went with a $1100 20X2L in a high end system (now VS VR9 SE Mk2, Poseidon Pre/DAC, etc).  It isn't just the TT and arm, it's matching it with the cartridge, then the phono stage (MM or MC).  I have fantastic analog sound despite it not being SOTA.  With 28,500 LPs (7,000 78s now played on the 19-4), I need a cartridge that plays most if not all of my LPs quietly (so many purchased used) and beautifully.  

Sure, my SOTA TT would be a full blown Kronos or Ars Machincae (or Conti last Basis).  I don't have to have them to greatly enjoy records.   

Start at high quality, used TTs that have flooded the market.  I like the SME arm because it is less sensitive to VTA after setup, durable and usable in a wide range of cartridges.  The simple VPI like Scouts are a great table with their own arm.  For $3K, this including my cartridge, high output is wonderful sounding.  

Well, the only time that my wife ever experienced a physically attached moment to an audio system was when she heard the Von Schwiekert Ultra 11 speaker plus subs in a huge hotel conference room with a $1 million system playing my LPs and a CD. That turntable was the Kronos $50K setup (not the newest. multi-component one) with it’s own arm and a $15K cartridge. I’ve heard the Ultra 9, VR 100 or 110 and my best friends’ VR35 Export (bimonthly for years). I purchased the renovated 2018 VR9 SE Mk2 in January and now have about 50% of that Ultra 11 experience. I have a superior listening room though so there’s that. I am waiting for my Lampizator Poseidon to go with a possible Westminster Labs REI amp but don't intend to change my TT/analog front end soon. I may end up with 80-90% of that fantastic sounding system for 15% of the cost of the $1+ million system (well there is my room cost of $150K though).