the basis with the sme is my idea the proverbial classic combo. i have listened to both at length, and though popular opinion always falls in with the boyscout series when it comes to combos in this price range, the actual sonic differences are going to come primarily with the cartridge and needle when it comes to this face off. both are quite good as written above.
Your thoughts on Scoutmaster versus Basis 2001
I am currently torn between the purchace of either a VPI Scoutmaster/JMW9 or a Basis 2001 with SME 309 tonearm. The SME arm I currently own; the 'tables would be purchaced new. The Basis would be a bit more expensive even without having to buy an arm for it, but I don't mind if worth it. Your thoughts on what I might expect in terms of sonics between the two would be much appreciated. BTW, I use a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood and custom Wellborn tube phono preamp.