VPI Scout vs. Thorens 165

there are two cultures of turntable owners....the thorens 165 and 166 are both classic tables and fall into the first camp. most thorens owners just enjoy music and use their tables for years. the vpi boyscout turntables turn over like flapjacks at fall camp and are in the second camp. no one ever stops upgrading until they eventually (lots of money later)bail to another brand. the vpi may be the more superior product, but when you get to 'satisfaction' and 'pride of ownership' issues, the thorens is the winner.

Jaybo, thanks for your response. You wrote:

the vpi may be the more superior product, but when you get to 'satisfaction' and 'pride of ownership' issues, the thorens is the winner.

Can you be more specific about why the VPI may be the more superior product?

As a previous Thorens lover I vote for Linn LP12 or the VPI as they are more reliable and parts/ service are easily available. I have had Many Thorens TT die. All The lp 12s I have owned have never failed !

Pride doesn't mean squat - sound does, so I guess Jaybo is saying The Scout would be his choice. It's mine too - It's hard to beat the scout at it's very low price considering the performance. Why? If I knew that I'd start my own TT company.

I have mine stock and have not upgraded. There is no reason too. If I wanted to spend more, I would look at my options. For the money, the Scoutis hard to beat!

i would agree that the linn lp12 would be a great table. also the well-tempered classic. the oracle alexandria and delphi are nice too. i haven't had any problems with my thorens(knock on rosewood)