Have not heard the 294 or the Prime but have demoed several VPI decks and have no interest in owning one. I own a Rega P9/RB1000 which delivers great PRAT and musical engagement which an older(flagship) HRX failed to match. The strength of the Rega P10 is the great tonearm and overall sound quality not appearance. Until your ready for a true "reference"... Spiral Groove/Brinkmann/SME ect. the P10 will serve you well. FWIW the P10 has the ability to accommodate most world class cartridges giving you the ability to upgrade NOT replace, can the 294 or Prime make that claim?
Rega RP10 or Nottingham Space 294 or VPI Prime
I am moving up from a Rega P5 which I've enjoyed for nearly 10 years (with a Benz Glider). I would appreciate any comments if you've actually owned or spent time with any of the above tables, and also comments on cartridges used with them. The Rega usually comes with the Apheta. Yes, I know, there are other choices, but due to location of dealers and the fact that there is limited time available to any of us in this lifetime, I've narrowed it down to these three choices. I also considered TW Acustic Raven, but they are in a higher price bracket and there are no area dealers.