TT suggestion in the $7 - 10K range?

How would the VPI Classic 3 compare to the Sota or any of the others mentioned?

Buy my friend's SOTA Star Sapphire with vacuum hold down system and record clamp and an SME 309 arm. It is in immaculate condition and sounds awesome. When Gary replaced the suspension springs a few months ago it got even better! Killer deal including shipping and Paypal; can't do much better than that. Gary is meticulous and I have bought many great LPs from him. I had the VPI TNT 5 and they are good tables but I think this SOTA is quieter and the vacuum really works to flatten and stabilize LPs during play. Put an Ortofon Cadenza Bronze on it and it will make great music.

Cosmos IV or a Millennia. As above poster said youd have to spend 30k+ to better them.

Clearaudio innovation compact wood...$7,500 new prolly $5K used.

Modified Lenco L75. If done properly will run with the big tables and even beat many. Expect to pay $5k and up for a real serious one. Check the forums for others experiences, most will concur - these things are the real deal, puts many more expensive tables to shame. Heard many so so belt driven tables from the likes of VPI, Clearaudio, Sota throughout the years but never any that can do the things one of these modded idlers can do, just take a peek at the Artisan fidelity lenco if you want an idea of what a top modded Lenco looks like. Certain so called hi end tables are alos built poorly (ie. VPI el cheapo) but most people don't know any better. I did also hear a 301 Garrard but it did not quite stack up to the Lenco, but could have been the system or setup, too many factors involved...good luck with your quest. btw If you must go with a new table maybe try a Feickert. peace J