VPI Scout or Michell Technodec?

I haven't heard hear the Tecno or Scout in person. People seem to rave over the Scout, but what little I've heard of the Tecno has also been quite positive. If it's anything like Michell's other tables, I bet it would be a damn good one. I understand the Tecno does use the Gyro's inverted bearing, platter (minus the weights) and DC motor--all very good signs. Both 'tables are upgradeable and I doubt you'd be disappointed with either. If you can listen to either in person, I think that would be the best way to decide, though if it's not a possiblility, then I understand your pain--pickins are slim in my area and I've taken a chance on gear more than once;)

I prefer my Gyro SE to both the VPI MkIII and the LP12, I and I definitely prefer my Gyro to the Nottingham Interspace, though I only heard that one briefly.

I msut agree, if you're willing to go used you can have a superb setups on your budget. If you keep your eyes peeled, you can find a used Gyro SE, an OEM250, throw a dropped counterwight on (and do further mods later as you have the cash) and used what's left of your buget for the best cart you can get your hands on (just make sure your preamp will get along with it). Properly set up, my Gyro/Origin Live/Clearaudio setup sounds heavenly! Think I paid something like 1200 for my Gyro, was a year old, latest version =)

"Guys: The reason I norrowed the search between the Tecnodec and the Scout is because I can't really afford the next step up, so even the entry-level teres is out.
/I guess I was hoping to here from those who have directly experienced these two TTs and might be able to relate how they compare."

I apologize for not having the information you seek. I guess my point was that with a little looking around and a little luck, you _could_ have the next step up even on your quoted budget. For instance, say you find a used Gyro at $1200, add an OEM250 from here on the 'Gon and upgrade the couterweight (there a few to choose from) at $300, and spend the remaing $300 on the cart of your choice--Clearaudio, Dynavector, Shure, and Grado all make excellent ones; I'm partial to the Aurum Beta and Beta S, having owned both--and voila, awseome setup within your bedget, and plenty of room to upgrade later. Alternately you could forget teh weight upgrade and sink the extra hundred into the cartridge...you get the idea. Alternately you could get a new VPI MkIII plus the 250 and cart at your budget, and that would certainly be no slouch, either--and none of it would have to be used, that way.

Just food for thought--again please accept my apologies for not being able to answer your questions directly, but hopefully this helps you in some way :)