10-30-07: Drubin
So which of the upgrades are most highly recommended?
Most agree the fluid damper, tonearm re-wire and outboard power supply are the most effective upgrades.
If you're going to do the tonearm re-wire, then there's no reason to buy a Technics with factory upgraded wiring. Some owners are quite happy with the upgraded factory OFC wire, however.
Lack of azimuth adjustment is the only downside of the Technics arm, IMO. I purchased a ZuPreme headshell with azimuth adjustment, but Sumiko also makes a headshell with adjustable azimuth. Each costs about $50.
I also believe the Isoplatmat ($99) is effective. It's made by Sound Dead Steel, which is a company that specializes in industrial vibration control steel and aluminum products. No snake oil here. These products work as advertised. Do a Google search for Sound Dead Steel and watch the demonstration video for the Isoplatmat.