The ClearAudio suggestions made so far (the Clearaudio Performance and the Marantz TT-15S1) are ONLY if you want a neutral table system. Both the table and arms on these are remarkable in terms of low coloration/low resonance. Both use the same arm, but the Performance uses the carbon fiber tube, while the Marantz uses the aluminum tube. The arm is really out of place on the price range of the Marantz. It is far above the build quality/performance of the typical arms found on tables in this price range. For more details on the arm, I'll fill you in if interested. In fact, this arm is found on $6,000 tables, and the arm costs $1200 by itself from the cheapest source. Actually, the materials and manufacture method of the Marantz are virtually unheard of for the price. Clear Audio does not take cost cutting short cuts so far as I can tell. Their primary concern appears to be quality/performance and they seem to have a huge amount of pride in their products. The Performance has a bit thicker platter then the Marantz, and the Performance has the ultra low friction magnetic repel bearing, though the bearing on the Marantz is also 1st rate, but it's a physical contact bearing - not the magnetic bearing like on the Performance. No matter which one you pick, they simply will not add much of anything to your sound. But some people want a table with more, uhm, 'contribution' to the sound. In fact, I would say most want a more distinct signature/coloration added to their vinyl rig 'sound'. But, if you are wanting highest degree of neutrality/lowest noise floor - the CA units are superb. After a few years of consideration, I finally purchased a CA table for myself(I purchased the Marantz TT-15S1). The 2nd runner up consideration was a VPI Scout, but the arm on the Marantz was more impressive.
-Chris
