Davey, I bought one of the very first Super Scoutmasters when it came out, with the 9" JMW arm and acrylic platter.
I have since upgraded to Super Scoutmaster Reference with Rim Drive, 10" 3D arm, Classic platter with oil pumping inverted bearing, and Terracone footers. I have used the Super Platter which was better than the original acrylic, but the Classic platter blows the others away IMO. One of the great things about VPI and this particular table is the ability to upgrade tonearm, platter, drive system, footers, etc. "if you want to", or leave it the way it is. The original table is an excellent performer, reliable, great sound. If you decide to buy this table you should know that you are getting top quality performance for your money. VPI service has been excellent as well.
I have since upgraded to Super Scoutmaster Reference with Rim Drive, 10" 3D arm, Classic platter with oil pumping inverted bearing, and Terracone footers. I have used the Super Platter which was better than the original acrylic, but the Classic platter blows the others away IMO. One of the great things about VPI and this particular table is the ability to upgrade tonearm, platter, drive system, footers, etc. "if you want to", or leave it the way it is. The original table is an excellent performer, reliable, great sound. If you decide to buy this table you should know that you are getting top quality performance for your money. VPI service has been excellent as well.