I'm a fan of SOTA and have gotten great service and results out of my Sapphire. Sapphires pop up used here and other places for ~$1K and you can get a great second-hand arm like a Graham 2, Micro Seki or similar with VTA on the fly for another ~$1K. That combo gets you giant-killer performance and a very budget friendly price. The table is readily DIY serviceable if needed, FWTW.
VPI is also highly regarded and owners rave about them. I don't have personal experience though, so can't offer more than that. Good luck and happy listening no matter which way you go!
VPI is also highly regarded and owners rave about them. I don't have personal experience though, so can't offer more than that. Good luck and happy listening no matter which way you go!