Depending upon the desire for mass loading or absorbtion of interfering magnetic fields, either device may have its' place. These are two separate issues. The VPI may combine the effects, but is apparently technically challenged in the EMI absorbtion area.
Although I've not experimented with it very much, my limited experiences with mass loading found it to not be very effective, but that's for ME & will not necessarily reflect upon your own performance if you should decide to try it. You probably should; it's certainly easy enough to do so.
Regarding Craig's question (and thanks Craig for your maple board + IsoBlock report) I do use one Shakti Stone presently. I had it on a CDP & couldn't actually hear that it did anything there. When I moved it to atop of my Synergistic Master Control Center, it expanded the stage significantly. Placed it on the case directly above the transformer, which is centered front to rear & about 3" from the left side of the case. Simply unscrew the top of your MCC & you'll see the transformer so you'll know where to set the Shakti once you put the cover back on. I never thought about putting it inside, but that might be even more beneficial with the appropriate cautionary measures applied of course.
Although I've not experimented with it very much, my limited experiences with mass loading found it to not be very effective, but that's for ME & will not necessarily reflect upon your own performance if you should decide to try it. You probably should; it's certainly easy enough to do so.
Regarding Craig's question (and thanks Craig for your maple board + IsoBlock report) I do use one Shakti Stone presently. I had it on a CDP & couldn't actually hear that it did anything there. When I moved it to atop of my Synergistic Master Control Center, it expanded the stage significantly. Placed it on the case directly above the transformer, which is centered front to rear & about 3" from the left side of the case. Simply unscrew the top of your MCC & you'll see the transformer so you'll know where to set the Shakti once you put the cover back on. I never thought about putting it inside, but that might be even more beneficial with the appropriate cautionary measures applied of course.