Can I answer your question on a philosophical plane? I think very often we reach a place where you are. Would something that cost a lot more be worth the money? Of course the answer will vary depending on means and values. There is also a biological clock factor that is rarely mentioned, but as we get older the ears don't improve. In 2016 I bought a SL1200GAE and found it to be very satisfying in most respects, but wondered if an SL1000 series or a VPI-40 would be a worthwhile step up. At that time the GAE cost $4,000 and in 2019 I bought a VPI-40 and paid $16,000 for it. I still have both turntables. They sit side by side in my Florida home. Yes the VPI is a bit better. I can still appreciate the difference at 78 years old, but then and more so now, much wiser, I can admit that the GAE was enough, is enough, gets the most use. Earlier this year I wanted to add another turntable to my New Hampshire home. I focused first on the SL1300G, but the price recently jumped from ~$3,000 to $4,000. I balked. I found a Denon DP=3000NE, factory refurbished for $2,000 that I am loving. Compared to my GAE is has a softer, warmer sound. Similar to my old belt drive HW-19. The arm is very versatile, has a sliding weight feature that allows it to accommodate changes in effective mass as well as simple balance adjustment. This feature has allowed me to use it with both high and low compliance cartridges. It is an excellent turntable. I am quite happy with it. No it is not my "best" one. But it is as enjoyable to listen to records on as any of them. And at the price paid it is the best purchase decision of the group. Some times less is more. It is always easy to spend more money. As lewm said, what would be the goal?
