Budget Table?

Honestly, I think you've got one of the best budget tables out there. So my answer would be "no, I don't think it's possible to get a better table for less." The only other suggestion I could make would be something used for around what you've already spent, even then, you might have to search for a while to get a price that good. MMF-5, Rega P2/P3 or Goldring/NAD equivalents are all good candidates. I've heard all and I like them all for different reasons. Regas and their derivatives provide the most opportunities for upgrades, take a look at just how many upgrades there are for the Rega RB250 alone:

http://www.tonearm.co.uk/tonearm.htm

and that's just from one company....

I do really like the features of the MMF-5 though. The record clamp, adjustable VTA, nice plinth, etc. I think the modded Regas have a clear edge over the MMF-5 anyday, but the MMF-5 has it over a stock Rega.

I own one but even before I had one of my own I thought the SOTA Star/Saphire tables are both very good looking and great performers. I have a Rega RB300 arm on mine and when you total up the fact it has a great suspension you can wrap your knuckles on the plinth and it never transmits to arm, Vacuum hold down for warped records, 33 and 45 RPM the SOTA reflex clamp all incased in a beautiful wood cabinet its a real winner!

Lenco, Technics (old stock), Gerard, Linn.

great advice folks. i've been thinking about upgrading to the 5.1 or higher. the jolida 302 b i just came into possession of has really upped the ante. thanks again Agon!