I quite liked and setup numerous Roksans and even adopted it's spindle config to a few LP-12s. They are actually a much bigger pain to keep running in proper tune than Linns but do get close in performance when you remove the cosmetic surround that holds the cover. I like the DV arm but prefer the Naim Aro, now gone. Part of what made the Roksan good is the removal of the spindle. It's the opposite of clamps which couple the record to table noise and vice versa, IMHO. The LP12 has had so many factory tweaks (not all for the better) that it can be hard to pin down but a properly selected one still delivers as well as anything. Oracle, Roksan, VPI, Avid, J.A. Mitchell, Nottingham, Townshend, Well Tempered all were/are 'better than a Linn'.
There's reason it's still the the one noted for comparison. If you like, we can submit Dig dubs of a Sgt Peppers cut for evaluation here. We can also just agree to disagree since there's no real need to as that wasn't the point. I'm very happy that you like your table that much.
Is that cartridge still an EMT derivative?
The point was how when something is genuinely great. it can stand the test of time, aren't easily superseded and should stop upgraditis for quite some time.
Would be very nice if the Shure was one of those. Cost effective is relative but if it can stop us from continuing to chase our tails, it could be cost effective for the customer that keeps trying new things pursuing nirvana.