My 2cents. I've got a VPI Scoutmaster on the way with an Ortofon 2M Black MM cart. I'm not a analog guru by any means, but the Scoutmaster seems to be at the threshold price-point of getting the most for your money, given the diminishing returns of spending more.
Per VPI, the 2M Black is supposed to be a great match, as well as the Lehmann Black Cube SE with the Scoutmaster. Can I ask why you are getting replacing yours? (If you are selling it, please let me know). PBN Audio suggested I try their Liberty B2B-1 stage ($1800, online sales only), and it appears to receive good reviews. Also, the Musical Surroundings Phonomena Nova II is well-regarded. I listened to it with a VPI Scout and it sounded good. Good luck--
Per VPI, the 2M Black is supposed to be a great match, as well as the Lehmann Black Cube SE with the Scoutmaster. Can I ask why you are getting replacing yours? (If you are selling it, please let me know). PBN Audio suggested I try their Liberty B2B-1 stage ($1800, online sales only), and it appears to receive good reviews. Also, the Musical Surroundings Phonomena Nova II is well-regarded. I listened to it with a VPI Scout and it sounded good. Good luck--