How To Spend $2500 on Analog Setup

keep the turntable...there's nothing close (new)with an arm at 2.5k........get a new cartridge and more records

I second Jaybo's response. I would add that the table can be tweaked if you must, with vibration isolation of your choice. I totally agree that the cartridge plays a tremendous role in the type of sound you ultimately get. I have been told that buying a used cartride is a very bad choice simply that unlike other gear cartridges are more delicate and absolutely must be used correctly, by vinylphile friends. I realize that any gear can be ruined by abuse but cartridges are more prone to suffer from minor deviations. So keep yor rig and audition cartridges.

With respect to isolation, the Thorens is currently resting on a salamander triple bay stand. The stand itself sits on carpet on top of a concrete slab.

What forms of isolation would you recommend? Also, what cartidges should I consider?