Choice Rega P5 or VPI Scout?

Depends on your musical tastes and if you are a tweaker/upgrader. I've always liked Rega better than VPI, but VPI makes a nice table. I'm not a tweaker and I just want to listen to listen to music with a simple, reliable, turn key machine. Both actually fit the bill, but If I owned a VPI, I'd constantly be tempted by upgrades and I don't want that. I used to think upgrading/modding gear was a great thing, but now my philosophy is just buy the best you can afford and upgrade when you can make a significant change (i.e., not tweaks/mods, but a full table change, etc.). I listen to mostly rock music, but also some classical and jazz. The Rega absolutely sizzles on rock.

I have owned and heard many, many TT's over the past 40 years. In my opinion, the VPI Scoutmaster is one of the finest TT's ever made that audiophiles with "normal" budgets can actually afford. The $3000 full-price package includes a great TT/tonearm combo, plus the excellent peripheral ring clamp. At this price point, there is virtually no competion, including the Rega tables. The only other TT that I would consider in this general price range is the Nottingham SpaceDeck.

I'm also considering the Scout, but I am comparing it to the MusicHall MMF-9. I hear the MMF-9 is a great table with terrific bottom end, and low noise floor, much like the Scout, but does the three layer plinth make any difference? It looks more substantial. Also, I am worried about VPI's unusual take on the whole anti-skating adjustment. And do you run into problems with unipivot arms and azimuth? I mean, is it possible to have a record cause it to rock side-to-side? Does EVERYBODY have trouble with the MMF-9's arm lift? Or only reviewers? Should I forget about both and reconsider Rega? I just think the Rega's motor is not very substantial, and I heard that all Regas run fast.

The Rega P5 does not run fast. Listen to it w/ the power supply upgrade and in IMHO takes it to another level. This table you just set -up and let it rip. There is no wondering about the next upgrade after upgrade just settle back and enjoy.
The VPI Scout is a very nice table also very tweakable but where dose it end on the upgrade. I agree w/ Mcrespo70.
I have listen to the Scout but I like the rhythem, pace and drive of the P5 and Dynavector 10x5 combo.

Neither.