Totally agree with Vikvilkhu's comment above about the Aries. I decided to go with the Aries Black Knight w. 9" arm and Dynavector 17d2 cartridge. This is a great sounding (and great looking) set up, in my opinion, and it's an interesting variant with much in common with the Scoutmaster, which is getting a lot of attention lately. The Aries is more musically impressive than the Scout, although the Scout is unquestionably a fine table at the price. I imagine the 10" arm could improve the Black Knight somewhat, although the next move for me is to add the SDS speed control unit. I've also listened to the VPI TNT HRX, and I think the Aries gets closer to that reference monster than does the Scout.
Good listening to you,
~Jim
Good listening to you,
~Jim