Deciding between 3 tables -- VPI HW 19 Jr. Kenwood Kid 5033 and SystemDek IIX. Opinions?

[Mr Boochie]

I would add that the tonearm is as important as the cartridge.

Also, the motor/platter's quietness is essential for that "black" background. One doesn't realize this until they own one.

 

[Beeb]

Hi Everyone, Just thought I'd give a final report. I decided to simply replace the cartridge on my Dual 505 with an Ortofon blue. I also got new tubes in my Fisher 800 B, so overall, everything is much improved and I'm very happy. Thanks for talking me down the ledge from unnecessarily purchasing a new table. I'm quite happy with the one I have. Till next time...

 

[Nat]

I suspect that you have made a good choice. If the tubes needed replacing, spending most of your budget on a turntable wouldn't really have made sense.
You can always decide to buy another table down the road, if the itch strikes again.