Is there usually a dramatic difference between $5k and $10k cartridges ?

I'll never be at that range so,forget about it...not even 1k.

$30k table, $15k arm, $25k phono stage

@inna 

I believe you can reach a high quality analog rig for less.   Targeting a rig good enough to play top carts but at least cost while minimally sacrificing Sonic quality, I got a used VPI Avenger Rim drive $8k (excellent established mass type turntable), new 4point (excellent price/performance) n Schroeder tonearms $5-10k, used VDH Grail SB phono stage $6.5k (bargain priced current phono to lower noise floor). With this I run top carts from Lyra, VDH, Koetsu….  One drawback - if I want to run a SUT, then I’ll have to get a quality “voltage” phono stage

@neonknight I find myself wondering same.. across 3 TT, arms , etc… but as you say it’s a hobby..i prefer passionate affliction… To paraphrase Lew.. my current self is thankful …

There is some good description of what makes a difference here, from the founder of Soundsmith: https://youtu.be/F65mODzn4Gk?si=chNaLUA7EOkvrW6s

@inna @rauliruegas  and @lewm both make good points. I have two more to offer that are in the same vein:

1) the ability of the arm to properly track the cartridge is far more important than what cartridge you have.

2) there is something called the Veblen Effect where there is abnormal market behavior where consumers purchase the higher-priced goods whereas similar low-priced (but not identical) substitutes are available. It is caused either by the belief that higher price means higher quality, or by the desire for conspicuous consumption. 

The thing to keep in mind here is that a more expensive item might only be more expensive for that reason alone.  High end audio is driven be intention rather than price; this means that there is often a less expensive device that can perform and sound better for less (sometimes a lot less) money.