Mountain Bike Upgrade?
 

I have a Specialized Stump Jumper and wanted to get a new crank and cassette. I was told Shimano XTR is good. Any advice on the brand, model, and how much it might cost me new?

XTR is good, but very expensive. It is meant more for hardcore racers and weight weenies.

I would recommend either LX or XT. Both are good, and more reasonably priced.

Go to your LBS (local bike shop) and talk with someone there. Things like this are their job, and with few exceptions, they are very nice and won't oversell you. Support your LBS!

I agree with Sailor420. Go to your local bike shop and talk to them about it. Most of them love to talk about bikes. I only ride road bikes with campagnolo record components, so I'm not really any help. But your bike shop should be very helpful and honest. I've never had anybody try to oversell me. (Make sure you go to a good local bike shop and not one of those mega-chain sports stores.)

THANKS FOR THE ADVICE EVERYONE.