You might try some different cartridges before giving up. I'd guess the Denon was undermatched for the table and arm, but one can't really judge this on price alone. I've certainly found the choice of cartridge has meant to difference between heaven and hell.
Well recorded and pressed Lps should give a very pleasingly solid and deep soundstage. I'd say that this is the hallmark of good analog playback, though there are plenty of people that are indifferent to it and care more about things like "PRaT".
Judicious choices of table, arm, cart and pre-amp can reduce surface noise to a level where it doesn't interfere with the enjoyment of the music, at least for me. You can't rescue abused records or bad pressings, though.