Upgrade From Systemdek IVe


I currently have this table which includes the external power supply/speed control unit and want to know which tables (brand/model) represent a clear improvement as far as an upgrade. I currently have the stock profile arm but was thinking of upgrading to a Graham 2.2 or similar arm so the arm is not my concern/question.
I want to know what the next step up is in my audio evolution with regards to my front end/TT if I want to hear a clear improvement in sound reproduction. I realize this is subjective but I still want to hear your opinion. I also realize I can spend $20,000 and get a better table but this is not what I want to know. Basically, what I want to know is the next step up the ladder regarding TT choice for me to hear a clear improvement?
Thank you for any and all opinions you can provide.
ruben1

Showing 2 responses by ruben1

Thank you for the replies.
I still have some confusion as to which way to go given all the nuances behind turntable performance and selection so I want to simplify the question and greatly appreciate your opinion.
If I did install a Graham 2.0 or 2.2 arm on the Systemdek (the ones I can afford) or a Micro Seiki 505 (which I also think very highly of) how would the Systemdek with either of these 2 arms compare to either the VPI Scoutmaster with 10 inch arm or the older VPI Aries 1 with a 10 inch arm? I am very fond of VPI for several reasons (built quality, service, performance, etc.) so I am simplifying my question by asking for a comparison against 2 specific tables I like.
Against these 2 VPI tables how favorably, or not so favorably would the Systemdek with either a Graham or Micro Seiki arm compare? Please be as specific as you can with the reply.
Thank you very much.
Br3098, thank you for the response.
Your question of me of what exactly I dislike of the Systemdek is one I honestly can't specifically answer (let me explain). My sincere belief is that this is the component which, if improved upon, will yield the greatest sonic improvement based on the system I currently have.
My current system is as follows:
Phone stage: Wright Sounds WPP 100c
Preamp; BAT VK 5i
Amps: VTL Compact 80 monoblocks
Speakers: DIY open baffle with horns -very satisfied with the sound!
Cartridge: have several but currently listening to Ortofon X3.

At this point I am very satisfied with the evolution of the electronics and feel the best place to concentrate to drive sonic improvements is in the analog front end. I recognize that the arm/cartridge specifically are the weakest part of the TT but I do have this nagging feeling that the analog front end, as a whole, is the weakest link in my rig and hence the reason why I am looking to make improvements here.

To further answer your question I am constantly (maybe a fault of mine) looking to eek out better and better sound of my system and thus always looking to make an improvement so although I can't specifically provide a list of the specific items I don't like of the Systemdek (I actually do like the table) I have a feeling this is where I can gain the best improvement in sound reproduction.

I am conflicted on what my approach should be in my continued system evolution. Is it better to simply sell this TT and get another one with a better arm or just replace the arm and current cartridge because the table itself, with a better arm and cartridge, would yield a clear and significant sound improvement and thus save me money to invest in other aspects of the system like better cables, etc.