All of those tables mentioned can be upgraded and much of it can be performed by yourself, if your handy.
I had a SOTA Star Sapphire for many years and upgraded it periodically myself, including new springs, armboard, vacuum system and platter mat (the platter did need to be sent to SOTA for bonding of mat.) Contact the factory.
Some food for thought: Upgrading via factory is expensive and you must be sure you have the correct packing materials for a turntable (the SOTA has a special box and hold-down system that must be used.) Shipping is expensive and chancy. Plus, you have to deal with down-time, packing, shipping, insurance...
I like the idea of getting a VPI scoutmaster and upgrading at home once the checkbook recovers.
I had a SOTA Star Sapphire for many years and upgraded it periodically myself, including new springs, armboard, vacuum system and platter mat (the platter did need to be sent to SOTA for bonding of mat.) Contact the factory.
Some food for thought: Upgrading via factory is expensive and you must be sure you have the correct packing materials for a turntable (the SOTA has a special box and hold-down system that must be used.) Shipping is expensive and chancy. Plus, you have to deal with down-time, packing, shipping, insurance...
I like the idea of getting a VPI scoutmaster and upgrading at home once the checkbook recovers.