LOOKING TO MAKE A TURNTABLE CHANGE, HOPEFULLY AN IMPROVEMENT


 I started with a VPI Scout, and then upgraded to a VPI Scoutmaster. I find the sound of my CD collection to be superior. Vinyl advocates insist that I am missing the boat and claim vinyl delivers the sonic goods.
 I was advised that the acrylic platter that came with my Scoutmaster was the reason the sound was not up to par.
 The cost to upgrade the Scoutmasster with  a steel platter and bearing is $1000.00.  Not looking
 to spend any more money with VPI. Not knocking their products, just have spent much money with them with
 less than expected results. Assuming I wish to listen to my 180-200 gram vinyl recordings I am looking for
 alternatives. I wish to stay loyal to my audio dealer who is always there to help me. He sells Project, VPI and
 Thorens. I would sell my Scoutmaster which should net me about $1000.00, and I would put $1500.00 of my own
money toward a new turntable.  Any thoughts?  Thank you in advance.  Note: I am sure VPI makes a wonderful
product, but I have not perfsonally had a great audio experience. 
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No doubt lots of people will have lots of firmly-held opinions... but maybe we should start with what you found deficient, and what you’re looking for. Also, have you listened to other decks — have you heard a TT-based system that really does it for you, for us to have as a reference (no matter how expensive)?
What is your phono stage?  That is as important as your investment in a table/arm/cartridge.

When I went to entry Basis 10 years ago it was a night and day improvement over my digital.  It is not inexpensive putting a good analog front end together but do it right and you will be rewarded.

Something from Rega, Music Hall, ClearAudio or Avid would be worth checking out. I heard about a new Avid turntable... http://www.avidhifi.com/turntable_ingenium.htm
I don't think the acrylic platter of the Scoutmaster is the issue, I actually prefer it over the aluminum platters and that table is probably VPIs best bang for the buck table that they have offered, with that said it sounds like you just fall into the digital camp and should just embrace that. I am of the other mind and use my digital as background and non critical listening but for those late night listening sessions only analog will satisfy me no matter what I spend on my digital front end. It would be interesting to know the rest of your system.