I need HELP with my LP12 based system

I would love some recommendations from hard-core analog folks. Currently, I have a 23-year-old Linn LP12 with an Ittok arm. My cartridge is a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood II. The TT has all the mods, including Trampalin. It still has the original AC motor. I was the second owner and it came to me with a Goldmund platter. My phono stage is a PH5 and the line stage is the latest version of the VTL 6.5. Amps are Bel Canto Evo2 running as monoblocks and speakers are B&W N803s. I know the system quite well at this point. With all else being equal, I find that compared to my Modwright/Sony CDP, LP playback suffers from a bit of mid bass sluggishness. The mids and highs are gorgeous. They are liquid with loads of inner detail. While the CDP has tight, tunefull, snappy bass, LP bass is just a bit bloated. It lacks some of the dynamics I think it should have. Also, as in hard rock or even big orchestral music, some of the power bass notes are a little whimpy compared to the same thing on CD.
I suspect the weak link in the chain is my cartridge. It might also be the old arm with the ancient wiring therein. In principle, I'm not opposed to replacing the entire analog setup, but it will be some time before I can do that. Given the above description, where would be the best place to invest $2-$3k? I've been spinning vinyl since the late '60s and feel comfortable with my knowledge of where things can go wrong. My current guess is arm resonance along with less than ideal synergy with the cartridge. Please to dive in with even expensive thoughts on the matter!