Of all the stands I've tried, I've never found anything better and more solid than a wall mount for my LP12. They can be found here on audiogon in the $200 range.
Since you favor the sound AR LS-5, go with an AR phono stage too. I use my old SP-6 for the phono stage alone. The AR PH4 is supposed to be fantastic - I wouldn't doubt it, tho I've not heard it myself.
Have you considered an MC cartridge? I use one, but
that means I need an additional amp or step-up with my SP-6. I prefer the sound of step-up transformers over amplification. I use an old Cotter MK2. Actually, I switch between the Cotter/SP-6 and my new Musical Fidelity A3CR, which has MM/MC phono. MF also makes a model LPS phono amp which handles MM/MC.
Since you favor the sound AR LS-5, go with an AR phono stage too. I use my old SP-6 for the phono stage alone. The AR PH4 is supposed to be fantastic - I wouldn't doubt it, tho I've not heard it myself.
Have you considered an MC cartridge? I use one, but
that means I need an additional amp or step-up with my SP-6. I prefer the sound of step-up transformers over amplification. I use an old Cotter MK2. Actually, I switch between the Cotter/SP-6 and my new Musical Fidelity A3CR, which has MM/MC phono. MF also makes a model LPS phono amp which handles MM/MC.