currently own a vpi scout, looking to upgrade

So you like the regards better than the VPI?

It's a matter of taste and NEVER about which one is better.

Some people (including me) prefer the Rega over the VPI because of the richness and musicality of the Rega compared to the "revealing" nature of the VPI deck.

Please note that "revealing" does not mean harsh or over the edge. It just sound more analytical to my ears, nothing more, nothing less.

I owned the original Scout when it first came out and it sounded superb with my DV 10xGold L/DV P-75 combo. Cannot comment on new model but I'm extremely satisfied with Rega now.

Luckily I have a great friend who owns a local dealer. I visit often allowing me to listen to great tables for long periods of time.

Based on multiple listening sessions, I would only upgrade to a Townshend Rock 7. Again, a matter of preference.

It all boils down to taste and synergy?

I have now had the rega rp8 for over 6 months and it is still the best sounding table I have purchased. More dynamics and resolution over the three VPI's I have owned. One problem with the Rega is the magnesium brace. It has oxidized to a black film. This is common to magnesium but definitely looks bad. I live close to saltwater so I am not sure if this is a common problem.
For those looking for a positive change the rp8 is a good choice with the apheta cartridge

McBuddah.....I'll let you in on a secret that Harry told me. The Superscout rim drive/Classic Platter is a very minor click less than the VPI Direct Drive. It is nearly indistinguishable between the 2.

there's a chap called berhard fuss (do a search or pm me) he makes a very good power supply for asynchronous AC motors - they are two phase, have pitch adjustment and are cheaper than the SDS. two phase power supplies are a 'major' AC motor upgrade. Where are you based. Before you change the front end, consider a tonearm cable upgrade - I got a Nordost Tyr and was utterly astonished from the cable I originally had (TCI)