Looking for a more solid-feeling turntable (and maybe a new preamp)

I owned the TD124/SME 3009 combo above, in a larger dustproof cabinet, but my wood floors are too springy for it’s amazing bearing which is sensitive to vertical movement.

For a friend, I helped assemble a two arm Luxman PD-444 with both long and short Micro Seiki 505 arms, I highly recommend it, Quartz Locked Direct Drive

https://www.hifishark.com/search?q=luxman+pd-444

I like it so much, recommend it so often that I uploaded some info on this site

One nice feature is the built-in two arm junction box, with A/B switch, so only 1 phono cable out to your phono input

PD-441 Single Arm Version

The JVC Victor CL-P2 Plinth that I chose, (when you can find one), is a very substantial 7 layer composite they engineered at the peak of the Vinyl Era, with two removable arm boards

here’s a peek at my arm board removed (it is a 5 layer composite, you cannot imagine it warping or vibrating)

It fits various models of their Quartz Locked Direct Drive spinners, I chose TT81

shown with it’s dust cover on. you lift it off, need to have a designated place for it

I agree with you. I used to own a mid-level Rega and a friend owns one. I understand why lots of folks like them. But they are not my cup of tea. They always sound light and unsubstantial to me. 

I would recommend looking at VPI, SME, and Linn. I owned a VPI Aries for a couple decades. I highly recommend one of their suspensionless models.  I now own a contemporary Linn LP12. Also a great sprung  turntable. Its upgradability is a fantastic feature. I started with a mid-level configuration and then upgraded to about the top of the line. If you’re one of those folks that wants the best, but can’t afford it... now. This is an excellent choice. Each of four upgrades were sonically very significant and cost effective. My dealer just charged me for the difference between what I had and the new component. 

The upper end of the Technics line looks awfully nice (and substantial). 

Solid reputation and very good reviews. I don't have personal experience with the newer ones but the old 1200 series we very solid. 

Here ya go!

https://www.vpiindustries.com/vpiforevermodelone