What turntable in the $2500 range?

I know you favor multi-arm turntables.  I, on the other hand, have my hands full with one arm per.  Setting my own handicaps aside, this looks to be well ordered kit.  I have set up similar arms and can tell you they are probably good performers.  In all likelihood the turntable itself will be slightly off speed, but not terrible and quite listenable.  Not markedly different from my own VPI HW-19 MkIII.  The plinth looks like a bit of a beast, though, doesn’t it?  Whoever buys it better have plenty of space.  Pro-Ject makes excellent turntables in every way, they have my full respect.

Suggest you look at Acoustic Solid out of Germany. their entry tables are in your price range and are some of the best built tables for the money out there. I bought one a coup-le years ago and I’m very happy with the build quality and sound. Bested my VPI prime 21 at almost half the price and IMO way better built. They have a couple lines with wood based models and all metal based models, lots to choices in your price range.

Acoustic Solid – Handmade in Germany

Elliot, what’s good about the TT you posted is no dust cover.

@billstevenson @lewm 

Actually the SME has non offset bearings which means that when you change the VTA the azimuth changes.

The non-fixed SME has a screw under the arm to alter azimuth.

@billstevenson - are you able to confirm if your fixed headshell version still has the ability to adjust azimuth. I rebuilt a  3009 fixed headshell SME years ago and don't recall that it had azimuth adjustment.

This is a pretty much crowded market. from what i have read and listed to, the Rega, Technics have to been playing a lot here. also entry level VPI as some of the posters have mentioned. 

YMMV