I can't help with the comparison as I've only heard a VPI table once or twice. My experience with Basis is that you won't hear what this line is really capable of until you get up to the 2500 or higher. That's not to say the 2001 is not a fine table. Coupled with a Vector 3 tonearm it would be very enjoyable. Maybe not the best bang for the buck value, but still a solid table.
Your thoughts on Scoutmaster versus Basis 2001
I am currently torn between the purchace of either a VPI Scoutmaster/JMW9 or a Basis 2001 with SME 309 tonearm. The SME arm I currently own; the 'tables would be purchaced new. The Basis would be a bit more expensive even without having to buy an arm for it, but I don't mind if worth it. Your thoughts on what I might expect in terms of sonics between the two would be much appreciated. BTW, I use a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood and custom Wellborn tube phono preamp.