Another VPI or something else for under $2k

the TW Acustic Raven 0.5 is in the $4K range...fyi

The Well-Tempered Amadeus has generated a lot of interest amongst Well-Tempered owners and other vinyl enthusiasts. As a result, this appears to be a good time to acquire a used Well-Tempered Reference set-up for something reasonably close to your price limit.

I agree that butter pecan is the way to go. Strain out the pecans before damping your tonearm with it. Add a little to the main bearing to get a sweeter sound.

Seriously though, you've got a VPI so try something else. I've often thought of getting a second TT (I also have the SSM Rim-Drive) and if I had...

a lot of money I'd try - Teres
a little money I'd try - Rega

I'd really like to try the Grand Prix Monaco, but that would require a lot of money stacked on top of even more money. (The SSM Rim-Drive was a multi-year budget stretcher for poor me.)

Cheers

I recently got an Acoustic Signature after a few years of owning a Scout. I found an original Final Tool and just ordered the new motor, pulley, and belt for it from Germany. Total came in right at $2k. I'm very impressed with the Final Tool, but the basic sound of this table is different than the VPI "house sound." I'd say VPI's sound very organically integrated and are designed to let you focus on the music first and think about audiophile concerns secondarily. The FInal Tool is a bit more analytical sounding, noticeably more revealing, and requires more effort in partnering with preamps and cartridges to fine tune the sound to your preference. Different approaches, both rewarding.

I got a butter pecan! picked up a Nottingham Hyperspace with Anna arm, thought I would only be able to get a 294 at that price point. Will see how this one pan out, I have always want to try a Nottingham after owning Oracle Delphi V, Clearaudio Champion L2, and Sota Star Sapphire before.

Now which cartridge to mount on this 12" arm?