SonnyJ....when you speak of nuances, ...that means money. If you like the Ortofon Red, you'll REALLY like the Ortofon Black...more nuances. If you're getting rid of the Thorens because of footfalls, etc. put it on a very light shelf...or even make your own table/shelf...4 dowels and a light piece of thin wood or even masonite.
Smoothest and best sounding turntable/cartridge combo up to $1600??
As the title of the thread reads, I am looking for recommendation for the best and smoothest sounding turntable/cartridge combo up to $1600. I am replacing a restored and recently upgraded Thorens TD-145 turntable with a Audio Technica brand new 440MLb cartridge. I am finding that floating suspension turntables require more isolation against floor vibration. Other than that, the table is very good.
I also would prefer a more contemporary design.
Note: I will probably put the the Thorens on sale after reading the comments and recommendations to this thread. Thank you for your feedback