I have no experience in TT/cart combos that could directly answer the question.
However, in CD reproduction, I HAVE realized the value of a solid transport. No DAC no matter how good can make up for a cheap transport. I have a Sony SCD777ES, and as a redbook transport it is far superior to any $1,000 transport.
The comparison is perhaps wrong, but I would say the TT is the foundation and needs to be the best possible.
Also I agree that the small incremental improvement you want to make is NOT the best thing to do.
Save your money and get a substantially better table.
However, in CD reproduction, I HAVE realized the value of a solid transport. No DAC no matter how good can make up for a cheap transport. I have a Sony SCD777ES, and as a redbook transport it is far superior to any $1,000 transport.
The comparison is perhaps wrong, but I would say the TT is the foundation and needs to be the best possible.
Also I agree that the small incremental improvement you want to make is NOT the best thing to do.
Save your money and get a substantially better table.