I would go with one of the VPI turntables or the SME 20/2, which is what I have, assuming you could spring for the $11K. I would also recommend one of the SME or Graham arms--I have the Graham Phantom. And my experience with very low output MC cartridges is similar to that of the posters above. Anything below about 0.5 mV and a lot of problems can arise.
Where to start with vinyl
In your opinion what TT and cartridge would I need to buy to experience a noticable improvement over a Resolution Audio Opus 21 or similar quality ($3-4K new) CD player. Rest of system includes Rogue M-150 amps, Martin Logan Summits and tara air 1 interconnects and speaker cable.