Opinions on bang for the buck on TT & tonearm

If you are willing to think out of the box you can acquire a TransFi Salvation rim drive TT and T3Pro Linear tracking arm for about $4500. There are several reviews and threads on Agon, Search Transfi and/or Salvation.FWIW I think it is the best bang for the buck there is.

A used Basis turntable would be a competitor here. With a $6,000 budget you could get a 2200 with Vector 4 tonearm and have funds for an excellent cartridge. You also need a good phono stage if you don't already have one.

Why is Trans-fi "thinking out of the box"? It's one of a bajillion
legitimate candidates that probably comes to the new owner in a box.

VPI ...pick a price point and go

Second on VPI.