Need guidance on best turntable in the 3K-3.5K range

Acoustic Solid out of Germany makes very good tables at reasonable prices for what you get. they have a few in your price range to look at. Wood finish, polished metal finishes etc. Very well made compared to many others at more $. I've been very happy with mine. replaced a VPI prime 21 at 2/3's the price and bettering the VPI in build quality/sound by a good margin. I was disappointed with the build quality of the VPI. 

You failed to mention if you own a phono preamp.

Me to on Technics. Solid, reliable and probably the best D.D. motor on the market.

If I were looking to buy a TT in your price range I would opt for the used market because there are many expensive tables out there at a fraction of their retail price. 

For example, I bought a rather expensive German TT with arm for $6000 whose MSRP with an arm was just shy of $20,000.

The great thing about TT's, especially the more upscale machines, is the quality of build is exemplary and there is very little that can go wrong over time, unlike speakers or electronics.

Turntable companies that have gone out of business, and there are many because they tend to be small boutique companies, are a particularly good deal.

Good luck with your search. 

Technics sl1200g (5k new) or Technics sl1300 g (4k new) both top rated, built like a tank and detachable headshells.