No doubt about that Geoff, there are some extremely competent cartridges all available for £500 or less, Lyra Delos, AT33PTGII, Goldring Eroica, Kontrapunkt b, Denon 304, Lyra Clavis, plus others, that will deliver a performance that is nothing short of brilliant, BUT if you want to really get into the depths of what's available in those grooves, there is a price tag but IMO its well worth it.
I haven't had THAT much experience with Top End cartridges but what I have heard has shown me that I've only been scratching the surface.